Manilow Donates $300,000 to Joplin, MO Schools

Hollywood sprung into action after an EF-5 tornado swept through Joplin, MO on May 22 -- as countless stars sent funds and lent a hand in the rebuilding project.

Today, icon Barry Manilow traveled to Joplin and bestowed $300,000 worth of musical instruments to Joplin High School so they could begin to rebuild their arts program. "I know first-hand how invaluable music can be to get you through life's tough times," Manilow said. "It is an honor and a privilege to help these kids after such a disaster."

"We are just thrilled," Rick Castor, director of the Joplin High School band, said. "It was just like Christmas. We opened a few of the things last night and today."

Included in Manilow's endowment is a concert grand piano, six upright pianos, along with brass, string and other instruments.

Castor and his students have the Manilow Music Project to thank -- an organization that has helped schools that suffered cuts to music programs for the last six years.