Restoring the Sound of Opportunity at Martinez Junior High School

Project Instrument Rescue is a community‑driven effort to repair 59 broken, unusable instruments in the Martinez Junior High School music program. These instruments—many of which have been silent for years—represent real opportunities for students who want to learn, create, and belong. With your support, we can bring them back to life and put them into the hands of young musicians who need them.

Why This Matters

Music education is far more than an elective. It strengthens cognitive development, builds confidence, improves academic performance, and creates a sense of connection that many students rely on. For countless young people, band and orchestra are the places where they find their voice, their community, and their motivation to come to school each day.

The Challenge

Despite the clear benefits of music education, the school district has not provided consistent or sustainable funding for instrument repairs. As a result, dozens of instruments have fallen into disrepair—leaving students waiting, sharing, or unable to participate at all.

This issue is especially urgent at MJHS, a Title I school, where many families cannot afford to rent or purchase instruments on their own. When school‑owned instruments break, access to music breaks with them.

A Program That’s Growing Faster Than Its Resources

Five years ago, the MJHS music program served just 36 students. Today, it has grown to 260 students, a testament to the passion of the students and the dedication of the music staff. But this incredible growth has outpaced the resources available to maintain the instruments students rely on.

How You Can Help

Project Instrument Rescue aims to fully repair all 59 broken instruments so every student who wants to participate in music can do so—regardless of financial circumstance. Your contribution directly supports repairs performed by certified technicians, ensuring these instruments return to students in safe, playable condition.

Project Instrument Rescue Supporters