HISTORY AND MISSION

Supporting music in Albany schools since 1990

Albany Music Fund has its roots in the Albany Music Boosters, founded by the late Ernie Douglas, longtime director of the Albany High School Instrumental Music Department. The Music Boosters established a tradition of raising funds for instrument repairs as well as other parent-based support functions.

In 2002, in the midst of severe budget shortfalls, the entire AUSD music program faced elimination. A group of parents and music teachers mobilized to save the program district-wide, and Albany Music Boosters was folded into a new organization called the Albany Music Fund, chartered as a nonprofit charitable organization.

Albany Music Fund now supports instrumental and vocal music programs at every grade level across AUSD. We succeed through the participation of volunteer parent and student leaders, dedicated music teachers, and the many Albany family and community supporters who give generously of their time and money.

We believe music is fundamental to the growth, development, and success of our children, and that music is a vital element of the Albany curriculum with unique benefits for students. We are determined that every child has access to a quality music education.