Project Description

People-to-People projects provide material assistance and encouragement to schools, music organizations and musicians in developing countries in many parts of the world where small things can make a big difference. When appropriate, projects also promote greater knowledge of American music in the more musically advanced countries. Check out our new Adopt An Instrument program and ways to provide help for music programs affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Project Examples

Since this project was begun in 1964, People-to-People projects have been carried out in more than 60 countries. A few examples:

1. Since 1969, significant assistance (instruments and accessories, scores, teaching materials of all kinds) has been given to Holy Trinity School in Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, which now boasts a busy music school and a 60-piece symphony orchestra.
2. The Lawrence, Kansas Alumnae Chapter and others in Theta Province have provided substantial and significant support to the Beijing Conservatory and the Beijing Central Philharmonic Orchestra in China.
3. A prominent Greek composer, writer and critic received a large collection of recordings of works by contemporary American composers, which he has used in a series of radio broadcasts in Greece featuring American music.
4. Peace Corps Volunteers in many countries, including Bulgaria, Fiji, Malawi, Philippines and Poland among others, have received a wide variety of music materials to help them in their classrooms and their community activity.

Opportunities for Chapter or Individual Participation

Many People-to-People projects are administered at the national level with funds provided through Sigma Alpha Iota Philanthropies, Inc. There are, however, many ways in which the SAI membership can and does participate:

1. Work with foreign students on campus, and with organized programs for international exchange within the community.
2. Contribute music, books, instruments and other materials. The most pressing need is for instruments that can be donated or funds raised for their purchase. Solid backed music stands are also needed that can be donated or funds raised for purchase. Other needs include chamber music, CD's, and music minus one tapes. Contact the Project Director for details and instructions.
3. Hold internationally-oriented fundraisers to provide financial support for the various people-to-people projects.
4. Participate in the Adopt an Instrument program.

Donation Guidelines

To request assistance or further information, download the Request Form here*

*This is a PDF form, which requires Acrobat Reader, available for download free. This form cannot be submitted online, but you may fill in the fields, print the form, and mail it.

In Appreciation

The 2006-2007 People-To-People Cerificate of Appreciation was presented to Patricia Cavell Bulber and Jennifer Zerangue for their work with hurricane relief in the Gulf Coast region.

Project Director

For further information and guidance contact National Headquarters. Please keep NH advised of individual and chapter participation.