Cypress Creek FACE Announces New Instrument Library for Community
Cypress Creek FACE is excited to announce the creation of the Narda Rignault Martin Strings Library.
When Cypress Creek FACE Executive Director Nanci Decker’s daughter joined the lauded Klein ISD 5th Grade Strings program, she realized there was no summer camp for rising 6th graders. In response, Cypress Creek FACE worked with Klein ISD to create the 6th Grade Strings Camp, which launched in June 2013. Since 2013, Decker noticed that a small number of students had to borrow their string instrument from their school because they were unable to afford the cost of renting an instrument. Because they used a school instrument, they did not have an instrument to practice with over the summer.
Knowing how the pandemic effected many families, FACE made the decision to find a way to help these families. Cypress Creek FACE Board Member, Phil Martin, made the initial investment to purchase instruments as a way to honor the memory of his late wife, Narda Rignault Martin. Ms. Martin supported Cypress Creek FACE as a concert goer, a sponsor, and board member. Although she passed away in 2019 after a battle with cancer, her legacy and love of the arts live on in the Spring community.
Narda Rignault Martin (left) with husband, Phil Martin (right)Ms. Decker found a variety of strings instruments on sale through an online auction for school districts. Eighteen instruments were acquired: 9 violins (1/2, 3/4 and full size), 7 cellos (1/4 & 1/2 size) and one full size bass. Children and youth who demonstrate or express inspiration in learning to play a string instrument and are recommended by a teacher or mentor but, do not have access to a one, can borrow a string instrument from the new Instrument Library for up to a year at no cost.
Users sign an agreement with Cypress Creek FACE (if 18 years or younger, the parent or primary caregiver of the user signs). The instrument can be kept for up to one year at no cost. After 1 year, the instrument is returned to Cypress Creek FACE or the agreement is renewed for an additional year. If the instrument is damaged or destroyed, lost or stolen, or otherwise not returned, the signer agrees to pay repair and/or replacement costs.
If you have a string instrument you would like to donate to be loaned out, please contact Cypress Creek FACE at 281-440-4850.
