Music for Lifelong Achievement (MFLA) annual drive for musical instruments, donations to begin October 1

This year's Music for Lifelong Achievement instrument drive will begin Monday, October 1 and continue through Sunday, November 4. MFLA is a not-for-profit organization based at the Sheldon Concert Hall that donates used and new musical instruments to school and community music programs serving disadvantaged young people. MFLA also raises funds for instrument repair and musical accessories.

Over the years, MFLA has collected and re-distributed more than 500 instruments. The organization's 2011 drive set a record with more than 50 instruments collected.

Donors can help in two ways: by giving a musical instrument, or through a cash donation. Once again this year, St. Louis-area Starbucks stores will serve as drop-off locations for used and new musical instruments. The donated instruments then will be repaired and distributed to students who otherwise would not be able to afford an instrument. Donors get a letter documenting the value of the instrument for tax deduction purposes.

If you don’t have an instrument to donate, MFLA also will gladly accept your cash donation, which may be used to help pay for necessary repairs of donated instruments, as well as accessories such as strings, reeds and sheet music. These donations also are tax deductible. For more information or to make a donation, call The Sheldon at 314-533-9900 or visit www.supportmfla.org.