The sweet sound of music will be commonplace at the city landing park thanks to efforts by the Two Rivers Arts Council, which has added outdoor musical instruments for children to enjoy.
The special playset includes a xylophone, drums and a bell set. The funds to install the instruments were raised and donated by Alabama State Council on the Arts, Alabama Power Foundation, and Ala-Tom RC&D Council. The instruments are can be found next to the other playground equipment at the Demopolis City Landing.
The idea to install the instruments was pitched by previous Demopolis Public Librarian Kelly Tarplay. While on a trip with her family to Baltimore Maryland, where her family enjoyed playing with outdoor musical instruments installed there. When the time came for a suggestion to add to the park, Morgan Grimes suggested they be included in the park.
The Demopolis Horticulture Department was also helpful in the installation of the instruments.
“It would have cost a lot more to have the instruments installed upon delivery, but thanks to the horticulture department, we were able to save a lot of money,” Grimes said.
The instruments are created to stand up to the elements and should last for some time. Outdoor musical instruments are all around the nation, but Demopolis is said to be one of the few counties to have them in the southern region. The instruments are fun, but could also encourage children to learn about music.