Giving back to the local community has always been important to me. I believe music should be available to those that desire to learn it, and to those who benefit from it. One of the great things about music is that it can be shared in so many different ways. Here are some of the ways I have shared my music:
 
Church involvement:
Organizing youth involvement in church liturgical music to participate in regular worship. For four years, my involvement included recruiting talented local high school band and choir students, and directing these youths every Sunday for worship.
 
In 2001, with the help of these very talented musicians, I organized a CD fundraiser, spending many of my summer hours in a recording studio. We were successful in producing and marketing a very high spirited CD, which generated over $10,000 in gross sales. All profits were directed to the local youth church ministry. To this day, I still dedicate my time to this cause. In 2010, a very talented group of music majors from this area recorded another CD, entitled "The Way of the Cross". My family and I were thrilled to be a part of this project, knowing that all profits would go to charity. For ordering, or more information, please go to www.wayofthecrosscd.info.
 
School Involvement:
This will mark my 21st year donating every piano tuning and repair to two local schools, as well as a local church. These contributions encompass all aspects of my services, from tuning and repairing to donating pianos for their music programs. I also provide free appraisals and tunings for those who wish to donate their pianos for the advancement of music in these schools.
 
Performance Involvement:
Opportunities abound for those musicians who wish to give their time and share their talents. The Belleville Community Band performs at local retirement homes, nursing homes, and community events throughout the year. My trombone skills have come into play for this volunteer opportunity. This, along with my present church involvement in music, allow me to keep active in these worthwhile ventures.