Local boy to collect donated music instruments for schools

By Lori Porter Acorn Staff Writer

Ryan Darling

If you have any musical instruments around the house collecting dust, please call Ryan Darling of Oak Park, a 12-year-old student at Medea Creek Middle School who’s working on a special project.

On Jan. 31, Darling will have his Bar Mitzvah. He must complete a project that’s geared toward community service before he can be called to the Torah.

Because of his love for music and his involvement with bands in and outside of school, Darling decided to collect used instruments and donate them to a school that needs them.

A percussionist himself, Darling is primarily looking to collect percussion and wind instruments to establish a wind ensemble for the needy school.

He recently mailed letters to local music stores and to band directors from various local schools, requesting donations. His neighbors, Russ and Julie Parris who host concerts in their home, are helping Darling by requesting instrument donations in their e-mail newsletter.

To find a recipient school, Darling has enlisted the help of Tony Knight, an Oak Park Unified School District administrator and the former principal at Oak Hills Elementary. Knight promised Darling to help because he has connections with other school districts.

Darling plays varied percussion instruments such as drums, concert snare, orchestra bells, vibraphone and others. He also enjoys playing electric guitar and clarinet.

Music doesn’t take up all his time, though. Darling also plays basketball.

To help Darling as he collects instruments to reach his goal of establishing a wind ensemble for a needy school, please call him at (818) 707-7342.