MANCHESTER— St. Mary’s Bank recently gave $2,500 to Central High School Association of Music Parents (CHAMPS) to set up a small recording studio in the school’s music department.

“The arts are often the first thing to go in our schools when budgets are tightened, and we believe students benefit greatly from creative outlets like robust music programs,” said Tom Champagne, St. Mary’s Bank’s Director of Community Outreach. “We’re pleased to help CHAMPS give Central High the tools necessary to create a recording studio, which provides students the music education they need to excel in their chosen fields in the future.”

Specifically, CHAMPS will use the funds to purchase an Apple computer with Logic Studio software, giving Central High the ability to offer the use of the studio as an enrichment program for students. The program will allow students to record, edit, mix and perform their music. Teachers will in turn use the equipment as a tool for teaching, developing and refining the students’ performances.

“We are a public school, and our resources are limited,” said Theresa K. Sinotte, President of CHAMPS. “Our music department has approximately 250 students who will benefit from St. Mary’s generous donation, as many of them choose music technology as a career path. Central High needs a studio to bring professional and practical experience to our students, giving them the opportunity to learn from a different perspective. We’re grateful to St. Mary’s for providing us the funds necessary to give these kids what they need to excel.”

CHAMPS is a non-profit organization whose volunteers provide assistance during football games, parades and concert seasons and give additional financial support for music activities throughout the year.