PETALUMA, Calif. — Nov. 11, 2009 — Music is a healer. This belief is the driving force behind Musicorps, an innovative program based at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., that uses music in the recovery of wounded American soldiers. To provide safe, reliable power for the program’s audio system, and to make it easy for soldiers to use, Musicorps relies on Furman’s PS-8R II power conditioner/sequencers controlled by the company’s RS-2 Remote System Control Panels. Because the set-up enables the audio system as a whole to be controlled by a single switch, the system is more accessible to the soldiers, many of them in wheelchairs or otherwise disabled.

Launched over two years ago by professional musician Arthur Bloom, Musicorps gives wounded soldiers a chance to learn, write, play, and produce music using traditional instruments as well as computer-based recording studios installed in housing facilities at Walter Reed. The program also brings in highly accomplished musicians who make regular visits to teach, collaborate, and guide the soldiers through their projects. For many, Musicorps is transformational, helping them move forward and do something they love during long and difficult periods of recovery. Because playing music involves so much of the brain, doctors also believe it may help recovery from traumatic brain injuries suffered by many soldiers who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan.

“We have been gratified by the positive response from soldiers participating in the program, even those without music backgrounds who were initially skeptical and are now among its most ardent supporters,” said Bloom. “Implementing a Furman power sequencer connected to a remote on/off switch has made it possible for the entire system to be lit up by a single switch, rather than by individual switches in hard-to-reach back panels. The Furman power sequencers and remotes that we use provide safe and reliable power besides making the system easy to operate and accessible for our users.”

“Musicorps is filling a great need for the men and women of our armed forces, who often return home with wounded bodies and spirits,” said Bill Pollock, president and CEO of Panamax and Furman. “Through the power of music, this program gives them a unique chance to express themselves and heal. We could not be more proud of our support for this effort, and are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”

Furman’s PS-8R II power conditioner features the company’s revolutionary Series Multi-Stage Protection (SMP), Linear Filter Technology, and Extreme Voltage Shutdown to create the world’s most advanced and comprehensive transient voltage surge suppressor. The RS-2 remote control is an easy way to control equipment via inexpensive low-voltage wiring from one or more locations. Simple to install in a single gang switchbox, the panel features a locking key switch, on/off LED indicator, and start on/off sequence push-button.

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About Musicorps
Musicorps is a rehabilitative music program for injured combat veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center that improves quality of life and aids healing during long and difficult periods of recovery. More information is available at www.musicorps.net. Musicorps is provided by Renovation In Music Education (RIME), a nonprofit organization that helps people, organizations, and communities succeed through innovative music partnership programs. More information is available at www.rimemusic.org.

About Furman
Furman has been an international leader in developing award-winning, innovative power management products for more than 35 years. Their products give audio/video systems the pure, noise-free power they need for superlative performance while protecting them from damage caused by power surges and lightning. As part of Panamax Inc., Furman address all major electronic markets, including home theater, professional audio and video, the music industry, broadcasting, audio/video recording, and office equipment. The company is based in Petaluma, Calif., and sells through an international dealer network and through select retail outlets. More information is available at www.furmansound.com.

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ENDS