Today is my son Brian’s birthday. 

In 1972, the year we lost Brian, my husband and I created a music scholarship in his memory. For a boy who loved music so much — from piano to recorder to autoharp, from Mozart’s “Piano Sonata in C Major” to “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” — it was a fitting tribute. That scholarship supported young musicians until those funds ran out.

Now, 50 years later, with the help of family and friends, I am once again creating a music scholarship in celebration of Brian's generous spirit. 

As a retired elementary school teacher, I truly appreciate great education. The Shedd Institute for the Arts offers wonderful opportunities and scholarships for youth to learn and share the joy of music. Their ‘Music Box’ program is a wonderful place for children to play hands-on with all kinds of instruments. They have other great music education programs from Mariachi to Choir, and they offer need-based scholarships! I think it’s perfect.

Need-Based Scholarships

The Brian Loves Music! Scholarship will fund need-based youth scholarships for music classes and private lessons at The Shedd’s Music School and will be administered by The Shedd, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The fundraiser goal is to raise at least $5,000 for The Shedd’s education endowment fund. With an endowment, the scholarship will continue long-term, sharing music with many young people.

Yesterday I was interviewed by KMTR-KVAL TV News about the scholarship fundraiser (https://kval.com/news/local/hop-valley-brewing-hosts-fundraiser-for-music-scholarship-in-memory-of-brian-jensen). 

Today is the fundraiser kickoff at Hop Valley Brewing. I hope you will join me in raising a toast to support kids music!

For More Information 

Contributions today and in the future will continue to build the scholarship fund. To learn more:

Click here: About The Brian Loves Music! Scholarship Fund

Click Here: How To Donate — by check or online

Wishing you a joyful day

—Janice Jensen

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