Cassell’s Music, a full line retailer in Southern California, recently launched its ‘Play It Forward’ program designed to provide children with instruments whose parents cannot afford to buy one for them. Through the generosity of many customers, unwanted instruments are donated to Cassell’s who then fix them up into playable instruments. Families who come in shopping but realize they just can’t afford to buy an instrument, are then offered an instrument which has been set-up and refurbished to playing condition by Cassell’s technicians.
“I’m amazed at how many of our customers see what we’re doing and bring in an instrument to donate. One generous customer has brought in five guitars so far” said Ed Intagliata, Cassell’s owner. “The ‘Play It Forward’ program gained the attention of Los Angeles’ KTLA Channel 5 Morning News which featured Intagliata and nine year old Sophia, a recipient of a beautiful ½ size violin so she could play in her school’s music program.”
Since the story aired, Cassell’s has received many more instruments from customers who wish to see their ‘closet keeper’ actually be played and appreciated by a family who otherwise would not be able to purchase an instrument. “Due to the outreach of social media, it’s gone ‘viral’ on our web page and we are able to help many, many families in need” said Intagliata. “I challenge every store owner to start a ‘Play It Forward’ program in their own community. It will bring nothing but goodwill to the store and lasting joy to a child. That’s a win-win,” added Intagliata
