September 15, 2026 — Music students at JJ Daniell Middle School are getting the opportunity to make music with instruments that have been waiting for their next performance.

Covenant Presbyterian Church, a longtime neighbor and community partner of the school, donated 17 wind instruments to JJ Daniell’s Performing Arts program after the instruments received much-needed repairs and refurbishment.

The partnership between the church and Daniell reflects a shared commitment to supporting students and families in the Marietta community. Dr. Don Esa, pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church, said the church was thrilled about the opportunity to serve the school.

"Covenant's parishioners appreciate the dedicated work of the staff and teachers at JJ Daniell and the impact they have had on students’ lives," Pastor Esa said. "It's a blessing to our community."

The instruments were donated to the church with the hope that they could find new life in the hands of young musicians. Covenant Music Director Joyce Ketchie Carr asked church member Linda Streeter, a flautist and retired school band director, to help make that vision a reality. Streeter arranged for the instruments to be refurbished and donated to JJ Daniell, with the goal of seeing students breathe new life into them.

"The church’s donation did more than provide opportunities for children; it relieved a potential financial burden on our program," said Daniell Band Director Kevin Boyle. "Prior to the donation, we were nearing the end of our school-owned instrument inventory. These instruments are used specifically for students who lack the financial means to rent one from a music store."

The total value of the donated instruments exceeded $18,000!

The restoration work on the instruments was completed by Big Note Music, owned by Jim Schmelzer, who provided the repairs at no cost to the school. Schmelzer mentioned that apprentices at the Southern Music Institute in Cartersville also helped to return the instruments to top shape. Southern Music Institute is a state-certified trade school specializing in instrument repair through classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

At a ceremony celebrating the donation, JJ Daniell Principal Amy Stump and Assistant Principals Dr. Angela Moss and Cole Ross thanked Covenant Presbyterian Church members for their generosity, as well as Mr. Schmelzer and everyone at Southern Music Institute.

"We are incredibly thankful for the partnership and support of our church community," Principal Stump said. "Their generosity, encouragement, and commitment to our students and staff make a meaningful difference in our school community."

For Daniell, the best part is still to come: seeing students put the refurbished instruments to use and filling the school with music.

"If a child wants to join our band, we will do whatever we can to remove any obstacles, including providing books, supplies, and even instruments to allow a child to experience the joy of music making. This wonderful donation allows us to continue using our existing funds for the enrichment of our young musicians and fulfill this vision and commitment to our community!" Director Boyle said with a smile.