Ben's Bells: Dobiesz makes gifts of string instruments

He was nominated by his accountant, Rocco Albisani, who said Dobiesz invests thousands of dollars a year to purchase violins, violas and cellos.

"In a typical year Harry will donate six instruments," Albisani wrote in his nomination. "In addition to instruments donated to local schools, Harry also gives instruments to promising students who cannot afford their own. Even though he is not musically inclined, he does this because of his love of classical music."

Dobiesz also makes monetary donations to the four high schools he supports - Amphitheater, Flowing Wells, Canyon del Oro and Rincon - all while living on a fixed income.

Dobiesz moved to Tucson 25 years ago, after retiring from his job with the gas company in his hometown of Chicago.

Dobiesz was volunteering at a St. Vincent de Paul food pantry in 1997 when he met a man who lacked funds to buy his daughters violins. Dobiesz purchased instruments for the girls. Though neither pursued a career in music, both girls went on to graduate from college.

Another student who received an instrument from Dobiesz recently was awarded a four-year music scholarship to Northwestern University, north of Chicago. Another studies music at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.

Dobiesz never went to college, nor can he play an instrument, but his passion for music inspires him to continue his Violins Plus Strings Reward Program.

"I sacrifice. I'm not a millionaire," Dobiesz said of his largess. "It's my love for music, mostly classical music. I was inspired by my sister. When I was in high school she gave me a couple albums of Tchaikovsky."

From there his record collection grew to include Beethoven, Mozart and Vivaldi.

In addition to his music program and volunteering at the food pantry, Dobiesz distributes toys to hospitalized children and is a member of the Elks Lodge No. 385.

Contact reporter Kimberly Matas at kmatas@azstarnet.com or at 573-4191.