MAMMOTH MUSIC – INSTRUMENT DRIVE

Mammoth Music touches not only the students who participate, it has a large impact on the entire community of Mammoth Lakes and beyond. Mike Hammers leads our Mammoth Music programs offering students opportunities to play in the Concert Band, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, Beginning Band and Jazz Band along with various choirs. Music stemming from MUSD programs permeates the Eastern Sierra and travels to other areas to perform, compete and collaborate with other musical ensembles. MMCF was able to give a grant to Mammoth Music’s Equipment Drive. We talked to Mike and this is what he had to share.

1. For the readers that are not familiar with Mammoth Music, can you please give an overview of this program and the grades, ages and demographics that it incorporates?

Mammoth Music is a comprehensive music education program serving youth in the Mammoth Unified School District. We work with students in all the grades (Tk-12), with this specific grant and instrument drive supporting students in grades 4-12, generally ages 9-18. Our students reflect the demographics of MUSD, with a strong emphasis on serving families who may not otherwise have access to private music lessons or instruments due to financial or logistical barriers.

2. How do the youth choose or come to play a particular instrument?

Students are introduced to a variety of instruments through demonstrations, hands-on exploration, and guidance from our music staff, myself and Ms. Chen. Some students come in with a clear interests, while others discover their instrument through experimentation. We encourage students to choose what excites them most, while also helping them find an instrument that fits their physical comfort, learning style, and musical goals. Though we begin with general music instruction all the way down to TK, BAND becomes available in 4th grade. MES runs an after school band program (an hour a day, 2 days a week), while MMS and MHS have it as an elective, built into the school day.

3. Mammoth Music is "instrumental" in so many young lives. The Instrument Drive touched on a specific funding request. How does Mammoth Music issue instruments to students, how many instruments does it provide and why was the Instrument Drive so important at this time?

Mammoth Music provides instruments directly to students at no cost, removing one of the biggest barriers to participation. Living in the Eastern Sierra, there are no music shops or rental options nearby. We currently maintain an instrument library of instruments that students can use. The Instrument Drive was especially important because our program continues to grow, and many of our existing instruments were aging or in need of repair. The grant allowed us to expand our inventory, replace worn instruments, and ensure that no student was turned away due to lack of equipment.

4. What is the population that you serve and how many youth participated and/or joined the club?

Over the past decade, we have seen increased enrollment and new students joining the program, particularly at the beginning levels. This then feeds into our secondary schools. Many students return year after year, building both musical skills and a strong sense of community, with even some students with me in our instrumental programs for the last 10 years or more! At the time of this grant request, class enrollment utilizing instruments were: MES Beginning Band w/ roughly 45 students, MMS Concert Band w/ 52 students, MHS Symphonic Band w 50 students, and MHS Jazz Band w/ another 33 students.

5. Music is a universal language and has an impact on all people in so many ways. Are there any specific life changing experiences that you can identify that this group of youth has gained?

We regularly see students gain confidence, self-expression, and a sense of belonging through music. For some youth, Mammoth Music becomes a safe and supportive space where they feel seen and valued. It can be the reason they want to attend school. Performing together, learning to practice, and overcoming challenges helps students build resilience that extends well beyond music. Through our annual Spring music trips/tours, we have visited a handful of universities across the state, exchanged with grammy award winning schools and artists, witnessed performance at the highest professional level, competed against other programs, and so much more. These opportunities on top of the everyday instruction and local performances have the power to leave a lifelong impact on these kids.

6. Are there any significant milestones that the students experienced that stood out to you both musically, personal growth or possibly correlated to academic and life success?

Milestones range from a student playing their first full song to performing in front of an audience or collaborating successfully with peers. We’ve also seen students show increased confidence in school, improved attendance, and stronger communication skills. These moments often mark important growth both musically and personally. Our programs have earned recognition at festivals, earning excellent and superior ratings and putting Mammoth on the map of schools with high achieving programs. In addition, it touches my heart to see at least 1 or 2 students a year fall in love with music and the performing arts, then pursue a career in music. These students are now competent and successful musicians, composers, producers, and teachers.

7. What everyday challenges do your students face and how do you think being a part of Mammoth Music helps them get through struggles they may experience?

Many of our students face everyday challenges in school and at home. Being part of Mammoth Music provides structure, mentorship, and a positive peer group. Music gives students a healthy outlet and a sense of accomplishment during times that may otherwise feel overwhelming.

8. Are there any opportunities that the youth gain with Mammoth Music that they might otherwise not have?

Through Mammoth Music, students gain access to instruments, instruction, performance opportunities, and mentorship that would otherwise be out of reach for many families. They also experience teamwork, creative expression, and leadership. We often collaborate with local musicians, and our trips out of the area open their eyes to music at the next level and possible careers in this field of study.

9. Is there anything that you would like to convey to our donors?

We are incredibly grateful to MMCF and the donors for believing in our students and the power of music. Your support directly impacts young lives by opening doors, providing equipment and experiences, building confidence, and creating opportunities that last far beyond the classroom. The ripple effect of your generosity is felt not only by our students, but by their families and the entire community.