Traveling guitars play a new tune for KMC music programs

Story and photos by Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Musician Dereck McKeith performs while surrounded by students May 21 at Ramstein Middle School. The Traveling Guitar Foundation embarked on its first USO tour of Germany.
Musician Dereck McKeith performs while surrounded by students May 21 at Ramstein Middle School. The Traveling Guitar Foundation embarked on its first USO tour of Germany.

Visitors come and go, however, musician Damon Marks and The Traveling Guitar Foundation left a lasting impact on the music programs in the KMC.

The foundation visited KMC schools and rehabilitation facilities as part of a five-day USO tour of Germany.

Marks and the supporting musicians aimed to reinforce their beliefs in music classes being instrumental in the learning and development process of children and restoring strength to wounded warriors.

“As a musician, to play for our warriors who risk their lives for our freedoms is an amazing feeling,” said musician Allan Steelgrave. “It’s a way for me to give back and show appreciation for all that they do.”

Guitarists of various musical backgrounds preached to all who listened; dedication and hard work pay off in music. Student body musicians had the opportunity to play and sing alongside Marks and his foundation during the concert.

“We want to impact as many children as possible,” Marks said. “Every time we go somewhere, we’re donating guitars, cables, pickups, amps, music curriculum and whatever helps the music program.”

Giovana Kingsberry, a music teacher at Ramstein Middle School, said the concerts and opportunities the foundation provided the school with gives the children something to strive for.

“A lot of times our children don’t have these opportunities,” Kingsberry said. “We really appreciate the continued support to keep music education alive in our schools.”

 Musician Damon Marks  performs for students during the first USO tour of Germany May 21 at Ramstein Middle School.
Musician Damon Marks
performs for students during the first USO tour of Germany May 21 at Ramstein Middle School.

The last four years, Marks estimated the foundation visited more than 25,000 students during their music clinics, which provided students with musical instruction and the important education using instruments.

For more information about The Traveling Guitar Foundation, visit http://travelingguitarfoundation.org. For more information about local USO events, visit their Facebook page, USO Kaiserslautern.