• Location: Corvallis, Oregon
• Instruments Featured: Rainbow Bongos, Rainbow Metallophone, Rainbow Chimes

At Ashbrook School in Corvallis, Oregon, creativity, music, and nature now blend beautifully together thanks to a new outdoor musical installation from Percussion Play — and it all started with a bit of luck!

A Fortunate Win Turns into a Lasting Legacy

Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of luck to spark something truly special.

That was the case for Ashbrook School in Corvallis, Oregon, when Associate Prekindergarten Teacher Casey Lee entered a giveaway at the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) conference in California.

“We were lucky enough to enter a drawing at the NAEYC conference and we won!” Casey shared.

The prize? A Rainbow Trio Ensemble from Percussion Play — a colorful set of outdoor musical instruments featuring Rainbow Chimes, Rainbow Bongos, and a Rainbow Metallophone. It was a win that struck a chord across the whole school community.

Music That’s Always in Reach

The instruments were installed on the school’s spacious playground, quickly becoming a new favorite hangout for students from Preschool all the way to 8th grade. Whether it’s during recess, a classroom activity, or a quick creative brain break, the Rainbow Trio is always ready to play.

“They are wonderful,” Casey said. “The students are all excited to have these beautiful instruments added to our playground. My PreK class has been excited every day to try them out.”

And it’s easy to see why. The vibrant colors and welcoming tones invite children to explore music in their own way — whether they’re tapping out a solo rhythm on the bongos or teaming up to create an impromptu jam session with friends.

More Than Just Play

Of course, these instruments offer more than just fun. Ashbrook School saw the value in adding outdoor musical play as a way to support sensory development, creativity, and social-emotional growth.

The goal? A space where music is accessible, inclusive, and part of daily life.

Kids are naturally drawn to the instruments, experimenting with rhythm and sound in ways that feel spontaneous, joyful, and 100% student-led. And because the instruments live outside, they’re available all day — no special permission or sign-ups required.

A Seamless Experience

From start to finish, Casey says the experience working with Percussion Play was smooth and supportive.

“The entire team has been kind and accommodating. I would work with any of them again. From the initial drawing to delivery and support, the experience was smooth and collaborative.”

What started as a lucky win has now become a core part of Ashbrook’s learning environment. It’s a daily reminder that music, play, and learning go hand in hand — and that sometimes the best things come when you least expect them. Ashbrook School now has a unique space where students can explore music in a way that’s inclusive, accessible, and fun. The instruments are not only bringing children together but also fostering creativity, confidence, and social play.