Instrument Donations
DONATION GUIDELINES
Instrument Donations
Instrument donations are a core part to the success of our programs. While we would love to accept every instrument, our instrument repair budget is limited. We can only accept instruments if they fit the following criteria:
- Instruments must have all parts in working condition with no significant physical damage (i.e. no holes, big dents, cracks, missing cases, etc)
- Cases should be emptied out and relatively clean
- We have an immediate need for more band and orchestra instruments, especially violins, clarinets and trombones.
Unfortunately, we do not accept piano donations due to the size and cost to move and tune. However, there is a wonderful organization called the Pianoforte Foundation that accepts piano donations to provide to Chicago Public Schools.
We would accept 88- key electronic keyboards so long as it fits the following criteria: The keyboard is is functioning and playable AND the keyboard has all of the cables and accessories
We do not currently accept sheet music donations.
If you can confirm the above information about your potential donation, please send an email to development@peoplesmusicschool.org. Please include an image of the instrument, the size, and any important information about the instrument. We can accept donations at two locations, please indicate which location you would like to drop the donation off at.
At the time of the donation you will fill out a donation form, and we will then follow up with a tax acknowledgement letter.
Thank you!
Transforming lives since 1976.
The People’s Music School (TPMS) is the largest completely free music school serving Chicago metropolitan area children.
Our mission is to deliver access to the benefits of high-quality, tuition-free music education. Through intensive instruction and performance, our students achieve excellence in music that transfers to other areas in life. They grow musically, socially, emotionally and intellectually, and develop a foundation of responsibility, self-esteem, resilience and purpose.
The People’s Music School envisions a society where all children have access to the unique social, emotional, intellectual benefits achieved through musical excellence. We believe music is transformative and empowers the lives of youth, families and communities. Founded in 1976 by Dr. Rita Simó, a Juilliard-trained pianist from the Dominican Republic, the legacy of tuition-free music education began in a repurposed barber shop, until a vacant lot on a residential block in Uptown eventually became its permanent home.
At The People’s Music School, we set high expectations for all students. We deliver a rigorous curriculum that demands musical excellence and personal commitment. And we root all of this in a strong culture of whole-child support.