The new piano is for the Encinitas Community and Senior Center.
With just four weeks into a fundraising campaign, the Encinitas Friends of the Arts has raised half of its goal amount. Through the 88 Keys Campaign, the organization is hoping to raise approximately $39,000 toward the purchase a new 9-foot concert grand piano for the Encinitas Community and Senior Center.
“Without a great instrument to play, musicians can’t make great music,” said Encinitas Arts Program Administrator Jim Gilliam.” With this new piano, we’re planning to bring a whole new level of artistic programming to the community.”
Starting in late spring, the City of Encinitas will present concerts at the Encinitas Community and Senior Center and utilize the 5,000 square foot banquet room as a new concert venue for audiences of up to 350. To present a full range of concerts, a 9′ concert grand piano is needed. The new series of concerts will feature the finest performers from throughout Southern California performing all styles of music: jazz, contemporary, folk, classical, reggae, and more.
“Through the 88 Keys Campaign, residents have the opportunity to make a contribution toward arts and culture in the city,” said Encinitas Friends of the Arts President Naimeh Woodward. The campaign is named for the number of keys on a standard piano. It gives donors a chance to purchase one or more keys, or make smaller donations toward the overall goal. Each key costs $300. A full keyboard of sponsorships will provide $26,400 toward the new piano. The names of donors will be placed on a plaque at the community center.
The project started with a $39,000 allocation from the City of Encinitas. The city is pursuing grant funding for an additional $39,000. The project goal is $117,000. The purchase is slated for late spring.
To purchase a key or to make a donation, visit: www.encinitasarts.org. All donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Encinitas Friends of the Arts, P.O. Box 230410, Encinitas, CA 92023-0410. Tax ID: 38-3956405. For more information, contact Naimeh Woodward, (760) 298-1708.
Encinitas Friends of the Arts has made significant strides toward its mission to elevate arts and culture. Established in March 2014 by the Encinitas Commission for the Arts, the organization partners with the City of Encinitas to enrich the arts in the community through programs and fundraising. Its cultural programs include the Passport Series, Encinitas Dia de los Muertos Celebration, Ballet Folklorico de San Dieguito, a year-round dance education program for youth, and the acquisition of public art.