Vanessa Pollock Music Initiative

Music Opportunities for All Students

The fund helps to maintain the district’s inventory of instruments, underwrites instrument rentals at the elementary and middle school levels so that all students can participate in band and orchestra, and supports teacher grant requests for music projects.

The VPMI also makes annual awards for advanced music training to Columbia High School students who demonstrate exceptional talent and are recommended by SOMSD music faculty. Awards are tailored to students’ specific needs for private music instruction and/or professional quality instruments.

Donate to VPMI

Charlie & Vanessa Pollock established the Vanessa Pollock Music initiative (VPMI) with the Achieve Foundation in early 2015.

Vanessa Pollock Music Initiative by the Numbers

69

Scholarships awarded through June 2023

738

Instrument rentals funded since 2015

The VPMI provided me with an amazing opportunity to receive a professional clarinet, and has aided me greatly in my musical pursuits.

Theo A, VPMI Scholarship Recipient

The VPMI completely altered [my daughter’s] path by providing an opportunity to develop musically in a way we could never have supported without this award.

Kim, Parent of VPMI Scholarship Recipient

My sincere thanks to everyone associated with VPMI for this tremendous support. Thank you for making such a difference in the lives of these young musicians – we are all truly blessed beyond words.

P Bauer, CHS Band Director

This is SO exciting! We were thrilled to share the news with him! Appreciate all you and the VPMI does for the SOMSD community! It’s music to our ears.

J&P, Parents of VPMI Scholarship Recipient

Winning the Vanessa Pollock Music Initiative award was the first major recognition of my dedication to music. With this award, I was able to improve my sight reading and playing through professional lessons. I will use this experience as momentum to kick off my college journey. Thank You Vanessa Pollock, Achieve Foundation and Mr. Bauer.

Matt, VPMI Scholarship Recipient

Achieve’s music scholarships have opened the door to so much more than voice lessons. I have gained new skills, opportunities, self-esteem, and a teacher who has been a mentor for growing into the adult world.

Scott, VPMI Scholarship Recipient