JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Created several years ago, the Jamestown Public School Music Boosters came together to aid the school’s music programs.

When it comes to budget cuts in school’s, music and arts are typically the first to be looked at. According to U.S. News, over 80 percent of U.S. school districts in 2008 cut arts and music programs first because their impact is not measured by standardized tests.

In response to that, the Jamestown Music Boosters came together to fundraise for the districts music programs.

Booster President Michelle Weatherly says since their inception, they’ve been able to provide multiple things for the school’s students and music educators.

Weatherly says they have set out to purchase keyboards for the high school practice rooms this year at a cost of around $800 apiece. They would also like to purchase a piano dolly for the school’s piano at around $700. She says it’s not in the school budget to purchase these items, so it falls to the boosters.

This Sunday, the JPS Music Boosters have scheduled their annual Music Blooms concert to help raise funds for the school. Weatherly says the April 15th concert will feature Jamestown Public Schools Musicians, JHS Jazz Band, Blue Jazz, JHS Show Choir, Vocal and Instrumental Ensembles. Students from Elementary to High School will put on the show.

The cost to attend is $5 for students, $10 for adults, and $25 for a family and can be paid for at the door. The concert begins at 3 PM at the Jamestown High School Theater.

Listen to a full interview with Michelle Weatherly below: