Keep music alive by helping Hungry For Music choose diamond tunes

It's no secret that the arts and music programs in schools nationwide are on the decline, particularly among schools with younger students. As someone who took part in band from the age of 9 through high school, it pains me to think about the future of kids getting involved in local arts programs. Fortunately, there are people out there trying to make a difference. Jeff Campbell, a former member of the Nationals' press corps who used to freelance for SportsTicker, is one of those people. For more than 15 years, the Hungry For Music program has donated thousands of musical instruments to children around the world, in hopes that becoming involved in music and the arts can help lead these kids to a better life. It's made a remarkable difference, thanks in large part to the charitable works put forth by the program to raise the money needed to fund these works of charity. One of the best ways to raise money has been a long-running series called "Diamond Cuts." Since 1997, Diamond Cuts has consisted of a collection of baseball songs, both past and present, all compiled to help funding and to raise awareness for the mission. Over the years the songs have ranged from the most popular tunes such as "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" to local tunes played in ballparks across the United States. These albums have been featured in such publications as the New York Times, National Public Radio's Morning Edition, and Bob Edwards' Sirius/XM radio show. The 12th installment will feature 25 baseball songs and Hungry For Music needs your help in deciding which songs will go on the latest album. By clicking here, you can visit the Hungry For Music website and vote for the final song on the CD, as well as learn more about the program's mission and how you can help. Voting closes Saturday, Oct. 15, so get voting and find out how you can help keep the arts and music alive in children today.