Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Supporting Alton's Music Education Since 1965
Alton Band and Orchestra Builders has been a steadfast advocate for music education in the Alton Community Unit School District No. 11 for over six decades. Founded in 1965, our organization partners with local schools to provide essential funding for instruments, equipment, and scholarships, ensuring students from elementary through high school have access to high-quality music programs. We support ensembles like the Alton High School Marching 100, Symphonic Orchestra, and Schumann Ensemble by covering costs for competitions and festivals. Our volunteer-driven team, composed of parents and community members, organizes events such as the annual Olde Alton Arts & Craft Fair to raise critical funds.We award $500 scholarships to graduating seniors pursuing music in college and subsidize private lessons and music camps. Through these efforts, we maintain a legacy of nurturing musical talent and enriching the cultural fabric of Alton. Our transparency and community-focused approach have made us a trusted partner in sustaining instrumental music education for future generations.
Services
Fundraising Events
Scholarship Programs
Instrument Maintenance
Competition Funding
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We have supported Alton's music programs for over 60 years.
- We award $500 scholarships to graduating seniors pursuing music degrees.
- Our volunteers organize community events like the Olde Alton Arts & Craft Fair.
- We fund repairs and maintenance for all district-owned musical instruments.
- We enable student participation in regional music competitions and festivals.
Services
Fundraising Events
We organize annual events like the Olde Alton Arts & Craft Fair to raise funds for school music programs. These events support instrument purchases, repairs, and student scholarships. All proceeds directly benefit Alton School District's band and orchestra students.
Scholarship Programs
We provide financial aid for private music lessons, summer camps, and college-bound seniors. Our $500 scholarship supports graduating students majoring or minoring in music. Applications are reviewed annually by our board.
Instrument Maintenance
We cover costs for repairing and maintaining all district-owned musical instruments. This ensures students have access to functional equipment for classroom and performance use. Funds are allocated annually based on need.
Competition Funding
We subsidize travel and entry fees for ensembles like the Marching 100 and Symphonic Orchestra. This enables students to participate in regional competitions and festivals, enhancing their musical development and exposure.
Community Outreach
We engage parents and residents in volunteering for events and advocacy. Our volunteer network helps organize fundraisers, mentor students, and promote music education through local partnerships and sponsorships.
People
Laura Plummer
Board Member
Laura has served on the ABOB board since 2020, coordinating fundraising events and managing communication efforts. She actively supports music education through volunteer leadership and community engagement.
Amy Macias
Craft Fair Coordinator
Amy oversees the annual Olde Alton Arts & Craft Fair, managing vendor registrations and logistics. She ensures the event runs smoothly to maximize funds for student programs.
Michael Ridgley
Board President
Michael leads ABOB's strategic initiatives, focusing on long-term financial sustainability. He advocates for music education and strengthens partnerships between the district and local stakeholders.
Chuck Willard
Treasurer
Chuck manages ABOB's finances, ensuring transparent budgeting and responsible allocation of funds. He works closely with schools to prioritize financial support for instruments and student activities.
Jill Mitchell
Secretary
Jill documents board meetings and maintains organizational records. She supports ABOB's operations by ensuring compliance with governance standards and facilitating communication.
Questions
How can I volunteer with ABOB?
Visit our website to sign up for volunteer opportunities or attend monthly meetings to get involved directly.
How do donations support students?
Donations fund instrument repairs, scholarships, and competition fees, ensuring all students access music programs.
What is the Olde Alton Craft Fair?
Our annual fundraiser showcases local artisans and supports music education through vendor participation and community engagement.
How are scholarships awarded?
Scholarships are reviewed annually by the board based on applications from graduating seniors pursuing music studies.
How can I donate to ABOB?
Send checks to PO Box 3284, Alton, IL 62002, or contribute directly at our fundraising events.
