If Not for Music Supports Creation of a Local Music Garden
If Not for Music (INFM) is collaborating with Life Scout Ben Barsotti, the Mattock School of Music in Pennsylvania, and Calderwood Percussion in Massachusetts to create a unique Music Garden on the grounds of the Mattock School of Music with direct access from a walking trail open to the public.
Life Scout Ben Barsotti sitting at the piano at the Mattock School of Music
The project is the brainchild of Ben Barsotti, 14, who has been a piano student at the Mattock School of Music. Ben wanted to overlap his interest in music with his future Life Scout project. Ben, and owner Dave Mattock, a member of INFM’s President’s Advisory Council, is working with Calderwood Percussion to have three instruments built that can stay outdoors year-round for students and people living in the area to use and enjoy.
Site of future Music Garden at the Mattock School of Music
The Garden will also support summer music camps and introduction to music classes. Mattock notes, “The three percussive instruments will each have a unique design, allowing for instruction in melody, harmony, and rhythm both individually and simultaneously.”
The estimated cost of creating the Music Garden is $4,000 and installation by Ben and other Scouts is anticipated for October 2024. While Ben is engaging in his own direct fundraising efforts, INFM has secured $1,000 toward the project. “As our fundraising efforts continue, we hope to secure more funds to support Ben and the Garden,” said Dr. Roger Mustalish, Chair of INFM’s Board of Directors. “This project directly speaks to each of our key mission areas,” he added.