Drumming Up Joy: George & Dane’s Gift to Joliet

In a heartening display of community support, the Joliet School in rural Joliet, Montana, a town of 600 residents, has embarked on an inspiring journey fueled by the dedicated efforts of Fay Ranches’ Ranch Sales Agents George Duke and Dane Reed. Their generous contribution has enabled the school to acquire a Remo World Drumming set, ushering in a new era of educational enrichment through music.

At the core of this endeavor lies an after-school program that promises more than just musical education. It offers a high-quality, engaging, screen-free haven for children, nurturing their creativity and providing a secure environment for exploration and growth. Beyond its immediate benefits, this program carries a thoughtful vision. The school district plans to extend the use of these drums beyond the after-school hours, seamlessly integrating them into the regular school day and showcasing their talents at community concerts and programs. It’s a vision that bridges the gap between education and community engagement.

In our ever-diverse world, the imperative for meaningful multicultural educational programs has never been more pressing. Enriching students’ lives through arts education has assumed a paramount role in the educational landscape.

“The Remo World Drumming program exemplifies the incredible impact of community collaboration. It extends beyond the classroom, enriching our students’ lives, fostering unity, and opening doors to a world of cultural understanding through the universal language of music,” stated Clark Begger, Joliet School Superintendent.

Conceived by Dr. Will Schmid, this curriculum comprises 30 meticulously structured lessons. Notably, these lessons seamlessly integrate with the middle school general music classes, introducing students to a fascinating array of easy-to-play hand percussion instruments. Inclusivity is paramount, ensuring every student participates in this immersive, “hands-on” cross-cultural learning experience. By spotlighting world music, students gain profound insights into various cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This newfound cultural richness catalyzes tolerance, empathy, and understanding—a vital arsenal in today’s globally connected society.

“Our dedication to supporting initiatives like the Remo World Drumming program at Joliet School aligns with our core values of community development and education. We are proud to have played a role in making this program a reality, and we believe that it exemplifies the transformative power of music, education, and community collaboration. This initiative reflects our belief in the potential of every child to thrive when given the right opportunities and resources. We hope that the rhythms of these drums will resonate in the students’ hearts and within the broader community, fostering unity and celebrating the richness of cultural diversity,” stated George Duke.

As the reverberations of these drumbeats echo through the hallways of Joliet School, they herald a future where harmony and diversity unite. This is a testament to the profound influence of music, the power of education, and the enduring spirit of community. This testament will resonate for generations to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of students and the wider community alike.

Thanks to the generosity and dedication of George Duke and Dane Reed, the Joliet School has been able to bring this transformative program to life. Partnering with the Fay Rural Community Foundation, their commitment has not only provided the necessary resources but also inspired a wave of positive change within the community. This collaboration exemplifies the powerful impact that individuals can have when they invest in the potential of young minds and the cultural enrichment of their communities.

Connect with Dane Reed | (406) 425-0939 | dreed@fayranches.com
Connect with George Duke | (406) 670-7258 | gduke@fayranches.com
Learn more about Fay Rural Community Foundation