The quality band program that we have come to expect from Dunbar is expensive – over $1,400 per student. The Band receives very minimal financial support from the Fayette County Board of Education – just a few thousand dollars each year. Fundraising efforts by the Band Parents Association (BPA) and the members of the band provide the necessary funds to support the Band’s activities. The entire band program at PLD benefits from these funds, which are used to pay for such things as sheet music, instruments and instrument repair, other equipment, uniforms, instruction, and other administrative support. In addition, the funds raised by the PLD Band Parents Association pays for all transportation to assessments and contests and off-campus performances, food, lodging at contests, entry fees, and award patches.

      Our single biggest fundraiser is working the concession stands for the Lexington Legends baseball games at Applebee’s park. Dunbar Band has been associated with the Lexington Legends since they started operations in 2001. The band earns a percentage of sales at the concessions stands. Because we commit to provide concession staff at each game, we ask everyone to work a 20 slot minimum for each band member (8 for concert-only band members). One “slot” is one person’s work at a Legends game or special event at Applebees Park. There is no “buyout” for the Legends commitment. We count on each family to pay band fees, work the requested number of Legends slots, and to participate in fundraisers to produce additional income for the band. For all to reap the benefits of being in this excellent program, everyone needs to participate in the fundraising efforts. In the event of hardship and the inability to fulfill these financial obligations, contact the PLD Band Parents Association Treasurer, to make a financial assistance request in writing.