KINGFIELD - The Kingfield POPS seeks good, used musical instruments to provide children in SADs 9 and 58 with loaned instruments to learn to play.

After meeting with staff from both school districts, Kingfield POPS board members realized the real need for instruments as voiced by the staff and decided to hold an instrument drive, board member Vici Robinson said.

"We learned that some students are prevented from participating in band because they cannot afford the rental program. They would appreciate the loan of a refurbished instrument," she said.

A recent e-mail from a middle school band teacher in SAD 58 boasted a 56-member middle school band this year. But of those 56 students, 30 depended on donated instruments to allow them to participate, she said. Only a minority is able to rent or purchase their own, she said.

"Our mission is to bring live music to the area and to inspire people and children to participate. We think it is a very important part of everyone's life. Musical training helps with math skills and helps children learn," she said.

As part of their commitment to regional school music programs, the board is asking for donations of used brass, percussion or stringed instruments. Some parts from a musical instrument can be used to repair other instruments, she added.

The board also has a request for a flute loan that it has been unable to fill, she said.

Proceeds from the annual POPS concert will cover cleaning, repairing and tuning the instruments before loaning them to students.

To donate an instrument, which is tax deductible, call Robinson at 265-5831 or e-mail info@kingfieldpops.com

Instruments may also be left at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce by calling 778-4215.