Travelling guitars play a new tune for KMC music programs

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Visitors come and go, however, musician, Damon Marks and The Traveling Guitar Foundation left a lasting impact on the music programs in the KMC. The foundation visited KMC schools and rehabilitation facilities as part of a five-day USO tour of Germany.

Marks and the supporting musicians aimed to reinforce their beliefs in music classes being instrumental in the learning and development process of children and restoring strength to wounded warriors.

"As a musician, to play for our warriors who risk their lives for our freedoms is an amazing feeling," said Allan Steelgrave, musician. "It's a way for me to give back and show appreciation for all that they do."

Guitarists of various musical backgrounds preached to all who listened; dedication and hard work pay off in music. Student body musicians had the opportunity to play and sing alongside Marks and his foundation during the concert.

"We want to impact as many children as possible," said Marks. "Every time we go somewhere we're donating guitars, cables, pickups, amps, music curriculum and whatever helps the music program."

Giovana Kingsberry, a music teacher at Ramstein Middle School, said the concerts and opportunities the foundation provided the school with gives the children something to strive for.

"A lot of times our children don't have these opportunities," said Kingsberry. "We really appreciate the continued to keep music education alive in our schools."

The last four years, Marks estimated the foundation visited more than 25,000 students during their music clinics, which provided students with musical instruction and the important education using instruments.

For more information about The Traveling Guitar Foundation, visit http://travelingguitarfoundation.org. For more information about local USO events, visit their Facebook page, USO Kaiserslautern.