A December collaboration between Dr. Ryan Reynolds, Assistant Professor of Bassoon and Chamber Music at UNCG, and the C.E. Jordan High School Bands in Durham, N.C., transformed a winter concert into a powerful fundraiser addressing a critical need: access to reliable instruments for young musicians.
Dr. Reynolds joined the Jordan High School Bands, led by School of Music alumnus Cameron Garris (’19 BM Music Education, for a performance of Julius Fučík’s The Old Sore Head. What started as a musical partnership quickly became a chance to support a program facing a major challenge.
“When I moved to North Carolina, I reached out to band directors across the state to offer my support,” Reynolds said. “Cameron told me his biggest hurdle wasn’t finding interested bassoonists—it was finding bassoons that actually worked.”
Recognizing the need, Reynolds and Garris reimagined the school’s annual winter concert as a fundraising event. With strong support from families, community members, and Jordan High alumni, the concert raised enough money to purchase a brand new Fox bassoon. Additional funds will help meet other high‑priority needs in the band program.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of such a creative and supportive musical ecosystem in North Carolina,” Reynolds said. “Access to quality instruments is a major challenge for many programs, and I’m committed to helping directors however I can.”
The project also received support from Fox Products Corporation, which sponsored the performance. “Fox Products’ commitment to supporting bassoonists of all generations is remarkable. I’m deeply grateful for their partnership,” Reynolds added.
Dr. Reynolds also expressed appreciation for Garris, the Jordan High students, and the families and community members who helped bring the project to life. He welcomes future collaborations with band directors across the state and beyond who are exploring innovative ways to expand access to quality instruments for their students.
Story by Brad McMillan
Photos courtesy of the C.E. Jordan High School Bands
