The University of Nevada, Reno’s School of the Arts has joined forces with the For the Love of Jazz Society instrument donation program to seek instruments for students in the Washoe County School District.

The For the Love of Jazz Society was created in 2009 to promote community appreciation of jazz by providing opportunities to learn about, participate in and listen to live performances by jazz artists. The instrument donation program has collected nearly150 instruments to date.

“Many of our students who are interested in music cannot afford to purchase their own instruments, and the district does not have sufficient funds or instruments for everyone who wants to play in band and orchestra,” David Branson, the Washoe County School District music supervisor, said.

Donated instruments do not have to be in mint condition. The Washoe County School District has a repair shop and will restore instruments to a playable condition.

“Many young musicians are in need of string instruments, which are in very short supply this year, but any band or orchestral instrument will be accepted,” Branson said.

A donation box is available in the Department of Music, Room 226 in the Church Fine Arts Building on campus. Arrangements for instrument pickup are also available by contacting Robert Peterson, professor emeritus, at peterson@unr.edu or (775) 747-2811. Instrument donations are tax-deductible.