Nurturing Musical Excellence: How Harlan's Music Boosters Keep the Arts Thriving

Behind the passionate volunteers fostering musical excellence in Harlan's schools lies an ambitious mission: inspiring lifelong love for music

In an era where many school music programs struggle to maintain funding, the Harlan Community Music Boosters have built something remarkable. Operating with an annual budget of $50,000-60,000 that has recently grown to $85,000, this volunteer-driven organization doesn't just support music education—it helps create a culture where the arts can thrive.

A Vision for Musical Excellence

"We exist to inspire students to develop a lifelong love for music," explains Jade Albertsen, a board member who has served the organization for four and a half years. This simple mission statement guides every decision the seven-member board makes as they support K-12 band, vocal, and emerging arts programs throughout the Harlan Community School District.

The organization's roots stretch back several decades, when separate band and vocal booster groups made a strategic decision to merge. "Some very genius parents about two decades ago said, 'Why are we trying to raise money separately when we should just combine efforts?'" Albertsen recalls. That decision proved transformative, creating a unified force for music education that continues to evolve.

Beyond Traditional Fundraising

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the Music Boosters' approach is their innovative fundraising strategy. Gone are the days of endless bake sales and product drives. A decade ago, the organization pioneered a refreshingly direct approach called "Just Donate."

The annual door-to-door campaign sends students throughout Harlan and surrounding communities with a simple message: direct support creates direct impact. "Your donation has a face," Albertsen emphasizes. "It goes to a kid." This personal connection resonates with community members, particularly those who might not otherwise interact with student musicians. The campaign has become their largest annual fundraiser, demonstrating that sometimes the most effective approach is also the most straightforward.

Creating Lasting Impact

The Music Boosters' support takes many forms, from purchasing instruments and equipment to funding clinicians and special programs. In 2024, they made their largest single contribution to date: $75,000 toward auditorium renovations at the Harlan Community School District. Recently, they're also preparing to donate a new 20-foot trailer specifically for music department use. Their impact extends from elementary school recorder programs to high school marching band competitions.

The organization's success is particularly noteworthy given Harlan's impressive musical legacy. "We've had a band in the top two since the inception of Iowa Jazz Championships," Albertsen notes. This consistent excellence doesn't happen by accident—it requires sustained community support and strategic investment.

Building Community Through Music

The Boosters work hard to make music accessible to everyone. Their membership program, aligned with athletic boosters, offers various tiers of all-access passes to both sports and arts events. This unified approach helps break down traditional barriers between athletics and arts.

"I legitimately feel like Harlan... has done so many things to tie relationships together," Albertsen reflects. "I don't think there's such a stark divide anymore between athletics and music." This inclusive approach helps create well-rounded students while building stronger community bonds.

Looking to the Future

As the organization evolves, they're expanding their focus to include more grant writing and alumni outreach. Creative initiatives, like their "Battle of the Jazz Bands" competition featuring digitized recordings from past state champions, help reconnect with alumni while raising funds for current programs.

The Music Boosters remain committed to supporting music education at all levels, emphasizing that their impact reaches far beyond just high school performances. "Even if you don't have a child that is in high school music or middle school... it's still so important to be engaged with us," Albertsen emphasizes. "We are a K-12 based entity that we try to touch everybody at the smallest point possible."

To support the Harlan Community Music Boosters, visit www.cyclonemusic.org for membership information and donation options. Follow their activities on Facebook and Instagram. For direct inquiries, email hcsmusicbooster@gmail.com. Whether through membership, attending events, or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to help keep music education thriving in Harlan.