At a recent concert, Anita Arnold, executive director of Black Liberated Arts Center (BLAC) Inc. in Oklahoma City, appealed to the audience to donate instruments that were not being used to the marching band at Frederick A. Douglass High School.
In a recent news release, Arnold said BLAC Inc. had purchased nine used instruments and another 10 or more had been donated by the public. She said the goal is to provide instruments to build the marching band to 100 members and provide instruments to five elementary feeder schools for a music program at the elementary school level.
“Zelia N. Page Breaux, an iconic music teacher and daughter of Inman Page, Langston University’s first President, had a similar strategy as she put in place a system that produced great musicians such as Charlie Christian, Jimmy Rushing, C. E. Pittman and so many more masters of music,” Arnold said. “I am honored to assist Charles Moore, band director in reaching his goals. We are both determined to bring Douglass back to its former greatness that produced merit scholars and legends.”
Indicating the seriousness of the project, Arnold said that every day of the school week, Moore loads up Douglass’ music instruments and goes to a different elementary school to teach music.
“He works hard at this daily routine and returns to Douglass to teach his students there. Mr. Moore is to be commended,” Arnold said. “In fact, Douglass’ band was the only Oklahoma band selected to participate in the Battle of the Bands competition in Houston last month. Douglass placed third in the small band competition. It shows that there is great potential for becoming nationally known again. Remember the music improves critical thinking skills and that is good for employers looking for employees. These contributions (money or instruments) are tax-deductible.”
Anyone interested in participating in the project may call Arnold at (405) 524-3800 or Moore at (405) 587-4200. Financial donations may be mailed to BLAC Inc., P.O. Box 11014, Oklahoma City, OK 73136.
