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Putting Beauty in Both the Eye and Ear of the Beholder

Dec 03, 2014

Artists have been repurposing materials for use in their art for years. Jewelry artists are no different, and have joined the popular re-purposing movement. Hang Ups in KC is a Kansas City, Missouri-based small business owned and operated by co-creators Kristi Jurgensen and Carolyn Adams. Kristi & Carolyn transform vintage treasures such as keys, silverware and typewriters (to name a few) into fun and inspiring jewelry. The duo have added a unique twist to their materials repertoire thanks to Band of Angels. Band of Angels is a partnership between Fox 4 TV and Meyer Music. The organization’s goals are to collect used musical instruments and help fund the purchase of musical instruments for children in need. Many times, these children want to study music, but their parents are unable to afford to buy or rent an instrument. Donated instruments are repaired and refurbished then donated to budding musicians.

Violin peg strung on violin strings with decorative beads.

Violin peg strung on violin strings with decorative beads.

Mike Meyer approached Kristi and Carolyn after hearing their 1 Million Cups presentation at the Kauffman Foundation last January. Mike proposed that the two form a partnership with Band of Angels. Meyer Music would provide Hang Ups in KC with un-repairable instrument components so they could transform them into jewelry. Kristi & Carolyn enthusiastically agreed and an amazing partnership was born. A portion of the proceeds from the jewelry are donated to Band of Angels. To see Hang Ups in KC's Band of Angels Retired Instrument Jewelry Collection visit www.hangupsinkc.com and click on the Band of Angels Retired Instrument Jewelry Collection.

Carolyn Adams and Kristi Jurgensen picking up retired instruments from Mike Meyer.

Carolyn Adams and Kristi Jurgensen Picking Up Retired Instruments From Mike Meyer

Kristi & Carolyn feel the partnership is an amazing gift, not only for Band of Angels, but also for them. They see it as an opportunity to do something they both love and it benefits a worthy program like Band of Angels. Music plays an important part in the lives of the two’s families. They know firsthand how music enhances the educational system and builds confidence in students. How can you help? You can donate your used instruments, make a monetary donation to Band of Angels or you can purchase a unique beautifully handcrafted piece of retired instrument jewelry from Hang Ups in KC. The pieces make wonderful gifts for the musicians in your life or even for yourself.

Trumpet Valve Cap Necklace

Trumpet Valve Cap Necklace

Double Hoop Guitar String Earrings with Ball- Ends

Double Hoop Guitar String Earrings with Ball- Ends

Trumpet Key Adjustable Ring

Trumpet Key Adjustable Ring

Trumpet Mouth Piece Ornament

Trumpet Mouth Piece Ornament