The future of the Bermuda School of Music's programme of free violin lessons for P1 and P2 students at two Government schools — Paget Primary and Victor Scott — is looking brighter, thanks to offers of financial assistance from several sources in the community.

Following The Royal Gazette's recent story revealing that a shortfall in funds could lead to a reduction in the twice-weekly violin lessons, as well as other free community services offered by the BSM, general manager Greg Smith reports that the school has since received $5,000 from an anonymous donor; the offer of a $20,000 dollar-for-dollar matching grant from Bank of Bermuda Foundation if the school can raise the other $20,000; and notification from the Kiwanis Club that it intends to make the school a beneficiary of its raffle and golf tournament in September.

In addition, several requests for further information have been received from an unnamed foundation, a reinsurance company, and another charity.

"We are very pleased that people have responded to our plight, and we really hope that more will continue to do so in order for us to have the necessary funding to allow violin lessons for the over 300 primary schools students to continue at the optimum level in September," Mr. Smith said. In addition to these free lessons, the BSM's community education initiatives include free string lessons at Bermuda's three community centres; a free children's choir; and music appreciation visits to Agape House and nursing homes.

Normally, the school raises $100,000 a year, of which $60,000 is allocated for its community education initiatives, but this year it experienced a $40,000 shortfall which must be recovered if the schools programmes is to be maintained on a twice-weekly basis.

Donors wishing to help should contact Mr. Smith at 296-5100 ext. 202.