Middle School students interested in the musical arts are getting a big boost, thanks to a $1,700 grant.

The grant, from area singer Linda Calise, is a result of money raised at a recent cabaret show. Middle School Integrated Arts Chairperson Andrea Barrett said Calise wanted to give the money raised to a school in need.

“She heard we didn’t have a lot of money,” Barrett said. “She wants us to help specific students that are really into music.”

Barrett said the new music teacher, Jerry Ulrich, is in the process of putting together a list of how to spend the money.

“The plan right now is to buy instruments, tune the piano, and get a really nice keyboard,” Barrett said. “Those are the three things [Calise] wants us to spend it on. … We want to get percussion instruments, so every kid can have something in their hand.”