The overview
Cypress Creek FACE officials said the Narda Rignault Martin Strings Library has acquired several instruments to date, including nine violins, seven cellos and one full-size bass.
According to the news release, the instruments are available to children and youth who demonstrate or express interest in learning to play a string instrument and are recommended by a teacher or mentor.
Officials said individuals participating in the program must sign an agreement stating the user will be responsible for paying for any lost, damaged or stolen instruments.
The background
Officials said the idea for the program originated after the nonprofit worked with Klein ISD in 2013 to create the 6th Grade Strings Camp for young musicians.
Nanci Decker, the executive director of Cypress Creek FACE, said she noticed a small number of students had to borrow their string instrument from their school because they were unable to afford the cost of a rental. Because they used a school instrument, she said they did not have an instrument to practice with over the summer.
According to the release, Cypress Creek FACE board member Phil Martin made the initial investment to create the new library in honor of his wife, Narda Rignault Martin, a former Cypress Creek FACE board member and sponsor who died in 2019.
Individuals who are interested in participating in the program or would like to donate an instrument can call 281-440-4850 or visit https://cypresscreekface.org/narda-rignault-martin-instrument-library.
