A remarkable surge in philanthropy has propelled the North Valley Music School's ambitious expansion project to its $7.5 million fundraising goal. The campaign, aptly named "Be Instrumental," received a significant boost in late 2024 with a generous contribution of $500,000 from Jim and Lisa Stack of Whitefish. This donation came just weeks after another substantial gift of $100,000 from Joe Guerra, honoring his wife Julie Lovern. These contributions, along with numerous others, have set the stage for the school's new state-of-the-art facility.

The momentum for this capital campaign had been building throughout 2024, thanks to the support of over 650 donors. A pivotal moment came earlier in the year when the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust awarded the school a grant of $500,000. For Christine Rossi, president of the music school’s board, these acts of generosity represent an incredible milestone. The Stacks, who have deep roots in the local community and a lifelong love for music, saw their donation as an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. Their personal connection to music, having played instruments during their high school years, inspired them to contribute significantly to the cause.

The new facility at Smith Fields will offer expanded resources and accessibility for students and faculty alike. Expected to be completed by July, it will feature 15 private studios, a spacious group classroom, a multi-purpose recital hall, and ample instrument storage. The school's executive director, Deidre Corson, expressed her delight and surprise upon learning of the final donation needed to reach the campaign's goal. She described her reaction vividly, noting how the news brought tears of joy to many involved in the project.

This achievement underscores the transformative power of community support and the enduring impact of music education. As the North Valley Music School moves into its new home, it will continue to enrich lives through the arts, fostering creativity and passion for generations to come. The success of the "Be Instrumental" campaign not only secures the future of the school but also highlights the importance of collective effort in achieving meaningful goals that benefit society.