Do, re, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do….

Orcas Elementary students can now add a new instrument to their music education: pianos.

Dick and Judy Evans donated $3,000 towards the purchase of 11 brand new electric pianos for the Orcas k-6 students. The money went through the Orcas Island Community Foundation, which matched a grant from the Snowman Foundation in Seattle, a group that promotes musical arts in the Pacific Northwest.

Both Judy and Dick play the piano, although Dick says he no longer plays actively. As lifelong music enthusiasts, the couple wanted to help enrich the local music program.

“I think music is being overlooked in education right now,” said Judy.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, they joined Principal Tom Gobeske and k-6 music teacher Pam Wright to open up the boxes of pianos, which had just arrived.

Each piano comes with its own adjustable stand and chair, so students of all ages can feel comfortable playing. Wright will incorporate piano lessons into her curriculum.

“The students can’t wait,” said Wright. “This has been a dream for years.”