Pass On The Music & Kindness to a BHS Musician!

Leaving a legacy of music, kindness, and joy, Jeff Gilbertson’s mom, Darla Joyce Ripley Gilbertson, passed away on February 13, 2024. Mr. G, Barnum's beloved band teacher, had this to say about his mom. "She was so many things to so many people: a loving spouse, a caring mother, a doting grandmother, a dedicated German teacher, a selfless volunteer, a loyal friend, and a talented musician. She led by example, teaching me how to be kind to people, how to follow through on promises and commitments, and how to enjoy each day that we are given." To those who know Jeff Gilbertson, it’s obvious that his mom taught him well.

In honor of both Darla Gilbertson’s love and legacy and Mr. G’s dedication and kindness, we are raising funds for a scholarship to send a Barnum High School student (who may not otherwise be able to attend) on the 2025 band and choir trip to Orlando.

Inspired by his mom who took many students on trips to Germany, Mr. G has been taking Barnum High School students on trips since 2011. His students have had the opportunity to perform at the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., the Oak Park Arms Senior Living Community in Chicago, the Natchez Pier in New Orleans, Disneyworld in Orlando, the Lincoln Center in New York City, and the University of Memphis.

"Of all of the things that connected us," Jeff wrote about his mom, "and there were many, music was the most powerful. From the time I was a very small child, and even many years into her illness, singing songs together was our greatest bond. For many years, even as her memory faded, she could still sit at the piano with my brother or me and sing. The songs never got old, and in fact, provided a great deal of comfort to me as her illness slowly progressed. The songs inevitably kept us connected and I’m very thankful for the countless amount of time we spent making music together."