Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores High School is celebrating a significant boost for its band program. The school has been selected to receive a donation from the Morgan Wallen Foundation Music Education Grant. This grant brings $38,920 worth of new percussion instruments to the school, including marimbas, vibraphones, and xylophones. These additions are expected to enhance the band’s performance and help students strengthen their musical skills.

The grant is part of the “Sand in My Boots Festival Give Back” initiative, which followed the Sand in My Boots Festival held in Gulf Shores from May 16 to May 18, 2025. Morgan Wallen, a well-known country music artist, established the festival and the foundation to support music and sports programs for young people. The grant for Gulf Shores High School is being managed by the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, an organization that helps schools across the country strengthen their music programs.

The new instruments are considered essential for the band’s growth. School leaders believe these tools will improve performances and support the development of the music program. Access to quality instruments can make a real difference for students interested in learning and performing music. The donation is expected to have a lasting impact on students in the Gulf Shores City Schools community.

School officials have expressed their gratitude for the investment in music education, believing the grant will benefit students for years to come. The Fine Arts Coordinator, William Mixon, is available to answer questions about the grant and the new instruments by email or phone.

The Morgan Wallen Foundation has a history of supporting youth programs in communities where Wallen performs. The foundation’s mission is to help children thrive through music and sports. By working with organizations like the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, the foundation ensures that donations reach the students who need them most.

The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation has donated thousands of instruments to schools nationwide, aiming to keep music alive in schools, especially in areas where funding is limited. The new percussion instruments for the Gulf Shores High School Band are part of this ongoing effort to make music education available to more students.

Excitement is building as students and teachers look forward to using the new instruments in upcoming performances. The school community hopes this investment will inspire more students to join the band and explore their musical talents. With continued support from foundations and the local community, the future of music education in Gulf Shores looks bright.