News Releases

CARLSBAD, Calif. - Oct. 19, 2011 - Thanks to the support of the Ken Grody Ford dealership in Carlsbad, the Museum of Making Music recently received a $10,000 donation from Ford Motor Company to help introduce thousands of local underserved children to the world of music.

Ric Douglas, a local Ford dealership employee, saw an opportunity for the company to support the Museum of Making Music's many educational programs, so he set out to secure help from Ford Motor Company's regional division, which championed the opportunity all the way to the company's headquarters in Michigan. Ford Motor Company, a longtime supporter of organizations aiding underserved and at-risk youth, donated $10,000 to the Museum's Title One Fieldtrip program, which brings students from low-income areas to the Museum for an interactive, educational experience.

Third grade classes at Title One designated schools in the North San Diego County area are now eligible for free bus transportation and tours at the Carlsbad Museum where they will explore the multi-faceted history of the American music products industry, have the opportunity to get hands-on with musical instruments in the Museum's state-of-the-art interactive displays, and participate in a drum circle.

"The generous support from Ken Grody Ford and the Ford Motor Company has enabled us to continue to provide access to music to underserved populations and introduce children to the world of music making at a time when many schools are facing budget cuts for the arts," said Carolyn Grant, executive director at the Museum of Making Music.

For more information on how to contribute to the Museum of Making Music's Title One Fieldtrip Program, please contact Alfi Schulidoff-Grube at 760/438-5996. To learn more about the Museum of Making Music and its educational programs, please visit www.MuseumofMakingMusic.org.

About the Museum of Making Music

Since opening to the public in 2000, the Museum of Making Music has become a cultural destination with interactive and educational programs and exhibits. The Museum showcases the evolution of musical instruments from the late 19th century to present day in five galleries, and regularly hosts intimate concerts and hands-on workshops to introduce the public to the history of American music products.

The Museum of Making Music is located at 5790 Armada Drive in Carlsbad, Calif. General admission to the museum is $8; $5 for students, seniors and active military. Children ages five and under receive free admission. The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and is closed Mondays. For more information, please call 760/438-5996 or visit www.MuseumofMakingMusic.org.

Photos (click to view high resolution version)

CAPTION: Gary Hertica of North County Ford (left) and Joe Lamond, President/CEO of NAMM and Member of the Museum Board of Trustees announce the generous donation of $10,000 from the Ford Motor Company in support of the Museum of Making Music's Title One Fieldtrip Program. Photo by Jon Moyer, Moyer Photography.