Thursday, January 12, 2012
Van Halen guitarist donates instruments to L.A. schools
Van Halen recently announced they were reuniting with their original lineup for a new album and tour, but it was a move by the band's lead guitarist that may have earned the greatest applause. Eddie Van Halen donated 75 of his own electric guitars to Los Angeles-area schools to help improve their music programs, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The contribution was part of an effort by the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation to provide guitars to schools that do not have enough instruments for their students. It is a cause that is close to Van Halen's heart, as he credits music for giving him the life he has today and feels it can do the same for some students. It can be especially important during hard times.
"Music kept me off the streets and out of trouble and gave me something that was mine that no one could take away from me," he told the publication. "Music education and families are dealing with the economic times, and I wanted to help them."
Van Halen is certainly not the first musician to use his craft for good. In fact, the Music for Relief organization was founded by Linkin Park to help provide aid to countries struck by natural disasters. Frendo provides the organization with fee-free donations. Sign up now.
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