CHARLOTTE — Throughout his career, singer Barry Manilow has given away millions to support music programs through his Manilow Music Project. On Saturday, the legendary entertainer showed his support for a Charlotte high school band program by presenting its director with a check for $10,000.
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Before taking the stage at the Spectrum Center, the singer met with Walter Suggs of Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology and his family backstage where he awarded the band director with $5,000, plus $5,000 in “Manilow bucks,” which can be used to purchase musical instruments for the school’s music program.
The Grammy Award winner recognizes a music teacher in each city his tour makes a stop. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board and Spectrum Center suggested schools and teachers in the Charlotte area to be considered for the award.
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“It is wonderful to partner with our concert venues to identify schools and music teachers in their neighborhoods that deserve this small token of my gratitude,” Manilow said in a news release. “Many school music programs have either been terminated, or their funds have been severely depleted. I always want to do my part through The Manilow Music Project to keep music in schools.”
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