The instrument petting zoo will be an event in which younger students around Durham that are interested in receiving lessons from Musical Empowerment are able to try out different instruments. Instruments such as violins, cellos, pianos, and clarinets will be stationed for each student to try with a Musical Empowerment mentor helping them, allowing them to understand which instruments would suit them best and learning new musical knowledge before committing to lessons. The instruments will then be lent to students who decide to join musical empowerment, relieving the burden of purchasing an instrument for their families. By introducing students and families to Musical Empowerment in a hands-on setting, the Instrument Petting Zoo will serve to channel the excitement of trying new instruments into continued interest in regular lessons with ME mentors. The event also strengthens connections with families and community partners in Durham by positioning Duke’s Musical Empowerment chapter as a reliable resource that removes barriers to music education through reducing the burden of instrument costs.
