By Geraldine Inoa | Development Associate
Happy Summer from ETM! Last month, another exciting, fun-filled school year came to a close. Because of your generosity, nearly 27,000 children in New York City spent the year immersed in weekly in-school music classes. Learning musical skills and knowledge throughout the year helped improve their concentration, focus, and critical thinking abilities. And it didn’t end there—they also developed a stronger sense of self and increased self-esteem. For many of our students, music was a benefit beyond the classroom; it made a positive impact that rippled throughout the rest of their lives. For two partner school students—sisters Edna and Mitchelle, this is especially true. At a time when their family was experiencing hardship, Edna and Mitchelle joined the orchestra at their school and began to overcome the challenges they were facing.
Mitchelle shared, “When my sister and I first joined orchestra in elementary school, we had to carry our instruments on trains and buses from our temporary residence in Manhattan as early as 4 a.m. in order to be in the Bronx for our 6 a.m. orchestra rehearsal. Most nights we only slept for three hours. But being in orchestra gave us hope in the present and hope for the future. I couldn’t wait to start practicing because music took me to another dimension. All of my troubles and worries seemed to melt away. It seems like just yesterday when [my music teacher] taught me how to play “Amazing Grace” on my violin. I went home very excited and immediately played it for my mom. When I finished, I noticed tears in her eyes. I said, ‘I know I’m bad, but you don’t have to cry about it!’ To which she replied, ‘These are tears of joy.’”
Edna explained, “Music has given our family a new take on life. We felt very privileged to be a part of the orchestra. It was a blessing to our family at a time when our family fell apart. Learning new songs with my sister and playing for the pleasure of our mother bonded us. Our mother was thrilled that we became so passionate about music. She became so engrossed in our practicing that despite her desperate need for sleep before her night shift, she would stay awake watching us.” Mitchelle said simply, “Education Through Music has provided a meaningful education to us and our family.”
Stories like these reinforce our presence in schools and how profoundly music can touch a child’s life. When Edna and Mitchelle and their family needed hope, music gave it to them. And they are not alone. Thousands of economically disadvantaged students now have a more promising future on their horizon because supporters like you are committed to bringing them quality music instruction. We thank you for believing in our students and in the power of music education. Show your support for ETM by sharing this report with a family member or a friend. Let them know how far their generosity can go, too!
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By Geraldine Inoa | Development Associate
By Geraldine Inoa | Development Associate
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