In-Kind Gift of Musical Instrument or Musical Goods

Thank you for considering a musical instrument donation to the College of Music. Your generosity can make a significant impact on our students’ education. To ensure your gift aligns with our needs and can be effectively used, please review the following guidelines:

1. Instrument Types We Accept

• Pianos
• Band and orchestral instruments
• Guitars and ukuleles
• Physical audio recordings, recording technology, and musical scores (case-by-case basis)

Note: We currently are not accepting organs.

2. Quality and Brand Requirements

We welcome student and intermediate quality instruments from major manufacturers for our Community Music Schools in East Lansing and Detroit. Accepted brands include, but are not limited to, Steinway, Yamaha, Baldwin, Mason & Hamlin, Kawai, Bösendorfer, Bechstein, Fazoli, Bluthner, Conn-Selmer group, Buffet, Keilwerth, Vito-LeBlanc, Buescher, Yanagisawa, Getzen, Holton, Schilke, Miraphone, Schreiber, Kohlert, Adler, Mönnig, Püchner, Fox, Loree, Howarth, Patricola, Jupiter, Azumi, Amadeus, Trevor James, DiZhao, Gemeinhardt, Pearl, or similar well-respected major manufacturers. Please include the serial number and model when documenting your gift.

Important: We cannot accept instruments from regional makers or those no longer in business.

3. Condition Requirements:

Instruments must be in playable condition and free from:

• Cracks
• Wood rot
• Oxidation
• Ivory components
• Insect damage
• Warping
• Lingering odors

Our technicians and faculty will inspect all donations.

4. Valuation and Documentation

• Gifts valued over $5,000 require formal appraisal and IRS documentation.
• Gifts under $5,000 do not require IRS documentation.
• Use an independent appraiser; local music stores can often assist.
• Submit MSU’s Gift In Kind Valuation and Intent Form with your documentation.

5. Submission Process

• Photograph the instrument(s) or goods.
• Complete MSU’s Gift In Kind Valuation & Intent Form.
• Obtain a certified appraisal (if applicable).
• Email all photos and documents to music.giving@msu.edu.
• Complete IRS Form 8283 for your records (instructions available upon request).

Your gift can provide valuable opportunities for aspiring musicians. If you have any questions about the donation process or whether your instrument meets our criteria, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We appreciate your consideration and support of music education at Michigan State University.

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