A 17-year-old is instrumental in helping plant a new program for budding band students.

Brian Lieber, an Alton High School senior who is taking rigorous steps to fulfill the requirements of becoming an Eagle Scout, is asking people to donate long-forgotten instruments to a deserving program.

"Musical instruments that have been abandoned and locked away in attics, closets, basements, under beds and in cabinets need to get into the hands of the kids who need them," Lieber said. "Let them play again."

To earn the Boy Scouts' highest rank, Lieber must undertake a community project. He picked collecting instruments to repair and donate to Alton Band and Orchestra Builders. He presented his plan to A.B.O.B. in September and received overwhelming approval for his idea.

Only 4 percent of all boys who join the Scouts become Eagle Scouts. Since its founding in 1910, the Boy Scouts of America has featured a merit badge program to help Scouts develop areas of personal interest and acquire knowledge in a broad array of fields. To qualify for Scouting's highest rank, youngsters must earn at least 21 of the 120 merit badges offered.

Lieber has earned 20 merit badges and hopes to complete his community project to earn his 21st before his 18th birthday on Oct. 26 so he will be able to earn his wings.

Lieber is the son of Kathleen and Jim Lieber of Godfrey. He's been a Scout since the second grade and is with Boy Scout Troop No. 1, Piasa District, Lewis and Clark Council. His Scoutmaster is Vernett Baker.

Lieber started his musical career in the sixth grade, playing the clarinet. He's continued to play ever since and is part of Alton Marching 100 and the symphonic band.

"I believe music education is important and every kid should have the chance to play," Lieber said. "I've already collected nine instruments."

He said so far people have donated two coronets, two trombones, a saxophone, a bass drum and a violin.

Those who have gently used instruments to donate can help area youths by dropping off the equipment at Halpin Music Co., 2375 Homer Adams Parkway, or by calling Lieber at (618) 467-0407 to arrange a pick-up or contact him by e-mail at risk6724@yahoo.com.

The instruments will supplement hundreds already made available for lease to students. A.B.O.B. volunteers support music education in the Alton School District.

To help fund instrument repairs, Lieber is selling flower bulbs through Spring Garden. The bulbs will be shipped directly to those make a purchase.

cynthia_ellis@thetelegraph.com