Violinists take a bow in Spokane

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Fiddle me this, fiddle me that. Why would anyone purchase more than 90 violins?

To share a love of music.

Red Weiler and fellow Spokane, Washington, Kiwanians purchased the violins in response to a need for more music programs in the area. According to Red, many of the schools cut back on their music departments due to budget reductions.

Using club funds, Red hired a violin instructor and obtained space at a church to offer lessons for anyone who interested in playing violin. Because all the instruments and music tabs are provided, all students have to bring is a yearning to learn to fiddle.

Though originally intended for younger students, Red encourages parents to borrow violins and join in on the fun as a family.

“It’s not your usual music class. It’s really fun,” Red exclaims. “Everyone sits in a circle as we go through songs.”

Each week, 20 to 25 fiddlers join the circle. Some are experienced, while others are playing for the first time. Skill level doesn’t matter because everyone helps one another.

Of course, practicing is no good unless there’s an opportunity to showcase newfound talents, which is why once a month the violin students perform for senior citizens. Dubbed the Kiwanis Music Makers, they have amassed a waiting list of nursing homes. Red accompanies the Music Makers on guitar and believes the program has given new purpose to his Kiwanis club.

“The Kiwanis Music Makers give us something to talk about; it’s what we use to tell others about what we are doing in the community.”

Through the Music Makers, Red not only has placed in children’s hands violins, but banjos, cellos, and other instruments. Struggling school programs also have benefited, receiving instruments for their students.

The only qualification to borrow an instrument is an interest in learning.

The Spokane Kiwanis club invested heavily in the program, but for Red, just hearing the students play is more than payback.

“We have a couple of former students attending Julliard, and several others majoring in music,” he says. “I know I can’t take credit for their success, but it’s rewarding for me to know that we gave them an opportunity to learn about music,” he says.—Sam Brattain