In a generous display of charity, KHS America collaborated with musician Harry Connick Jr., to surprise the Central High School band in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with more than $60,000 worth of new instruments. On Aug. 12, 2016, massive flooding damaged or destroyed homes and possessions, including many school instruments that students had brought home to practice for their upcoming marching season.
The school’s band director, James Henderson, had contacted Connick Jr.—a New Orleans native and host of the talk show “Harry”—asking for help, and Connick Jr. contacted KHS America.
Central High School’s band members knew that they would be hearing from Connick Jr. via satellite during the Sept. 14 taping of the show “Harry,” but they did not expect the surprise delivery of new instruments. The episode aired on Sept. 15.
“KHS America sent a truck full of Jupiter, Mapex and Majestic instruments directly to the school,” says Tabor Stamper, president of KHS America. “I can tell you that everyone here felt a real sense of satisfaction knowing that those kids can continue doing what they love doing.”
KHS America has a history of aiding musicians or schools in need. For example, after Hurricane Katrina the company worked with the Tipitina’s Foundation to replace damaged or destroyed instruments.