Today we’d like to introduce you to Colin Hurowitz.
Hi Colin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have been passionate about music and arts since I was a child. A few years ago I wanted to find a way to help young music students in need. So, I created my non-profit, the Douglas County Music Association. We have three primary goals: 1. To provide scholarships and sponsorships to young students and professionals. 2. To acquire instruments and lessons for students in financial need. 3. Provide opportunities for performance in Douglas County, OR. Over the last three years, we have done fundraiser concerts, provided scholarships to Oregon All-State music programs, granted instruments to students in need, and so much more. Our current goals are to fundraise for All-State music programs for the 2025-26 year, as well as continue to acquire more instruments for students. Currently we are supported by local businesses and individuals who believe in our cause.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s never as smooth as you think, but we’ve had minimal struggles while accomplishing our goals. Some challenges have included: costs for space rental, maintaining instrument cleanliness and functionality, purchasing advertisement space and materials, etc. However, despite our challenges, we remain a strong supporter of the community and many students have benefited from our program.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a full time elementary music teacher with grades K-5th, with special needs kids included. I also run two after-school music programs, a choir and band. I am a percussionist by trade, but with few professional opportunities in my area I don’t play as much as I’d like. I am proficient on many instruments and can demonstrate/educate children on them.
I am known for my music class. Kids enjoy coming to our school because they enjoy music class the most. I have tried to make it inclusive, worldly, entertaining, and beneficial to students’ learning. I am most proud to call my school my second home, and my students “my kids that aren’t my kids.” It’s a very special family and we all benefit from each other. We all come to school every day eager to spend time together learning, dancing, singing, and everything in between. I would invite you to visit my classroom and see what we have built together.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Kindness, equity, acceptance, love/care, passion, motivation, and determination. Oh and making class as fun as possible, while keeping everybody safe.
Pricing:
- All donations are accepted.
- Any amount contributes to our financial goals
- The most expensive things are scholarships, instruments, and space rental
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3358969744424637
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@oregondcma
Image Credits
Colin Hurowitz (me)
Students in Photo:
Ruby Sunderland
Rebecca & Elizabeth Sykes
Kylee Harvey
Tali Spencer
Melody Engelstad
Alexa Senajon
Nola Brigham
Images designed by Alex Aitken WITZ by Michael Wheeler
