Music Instruments & Supplies for NYC Kids

Happy New Year from ETM! Now that winter break is behind us, our partner school students are embarking on a new semester of learning. ETM’s program is reaching a record number of children across all five boroughs of New York City, serving diverse populations at schools that would otherwise not have the resources to provide music. Your support is helping the 10,000 children in our newest partner schools who are receiving music instruction and enrichment for the first time. Every day, our highly trained music teachers are providing life-changing experiences to these students.  

One student who has blossomed thanks to music education this year is Jonah, a fourth grade student at an ETM partner school in the Bronx who is participating in choir. Growing up, Jonah has struggled in and out of school due to having a stutter. His speech difficulties have made it harder for him to develop confidence and self-esteem. However, when Jonah sings, his struggles seem to melt away. Jonah's music teacher noticed that when Jonah is singing in choir, he is able to forget about his speech impediment and focus only on the music.

Through choir, Jonah is discovering and exploring a passion for music. He recently told his music teacher how learning about different genres of music in choir has inspired him to listen to more music outside of class. With his confidence growing, Jonah is eagerly taking initiative in learning and practicing music as often as possible - frequently coming to choir rehearsals with songs and movements memorized.

This winter, Jonah was able to showcase all the progress he's made when his choir had the chance to perform at Freedom Tower through an opportunity provided by ETM. It was an afternoon that helped expand Jonah's horizons and provided a new source of motivation. In his own words, Jonah said, "My favorite thing about chorus is the fact that I get to sing so much music and be on stage. I never thought that I would be able to sing at the World Trade Center in front of so many people."

Moving forward, Jonah has expressed his interest in continuing to learn and perform music to his teacher. As Jonah grows, the skills and experiences he's gaining through music will support his achievement in school and beyond.

By supporting Education Through Music, you are helping students like Jonah gain the motivation to learn and the confidence to succeed. Thank you for providing students with the tools to realize their full potential. Share this report with a family member or friend to let them know the incredible difference supporting ETM’s quality music education can make!

This fall, thousands of students have access to in-school music instruction for the very first time, because ETM launch new partnerships with 16 schools in New York City. Your support is helping to equip these under-resourced schools with essential supplies and instruments, so that music teachers and students can truly bring music to life.

For the students in these new partner schools, this year represents the beginning of what can become a lifelong journey of music and learning. Music education will broaden their opportunities and give them access to opportunities like the path taken by ETM alumna Crystal:

“I don’t think I would have discovered my true passion without Education Through Music,” says Crystal, who attended ETM partner school P.S. 76 in the Bronx, and then attended ETM partner school M.S. 180. Crystal is currently attending SUNY Purchase, pursuing a degree in Arts Management.

Crystal was introduced to music at P.S. 76, where she joined the band and began to play the clarinet. She credits her involvement in the music program with her good grades, because she had to do well in school to participate in extra band activities. “It was amazing. My childhood was focused on the music program. It was a wonderful experience finding something that I was talented in,” says Crystal.

Music supports developing well-rounded students. “I think it’s very important to know about music,” says Crystal, “even if you aren’t going into a music profession. Music connects everybody.”

Two music teachers were very supportive of Crystal. She credits P.S. 76 music teacher Jessica Parr with making a big impact in her life. “There were times when I was doubtful of myself, and she would reassure me, give me advice and she was very supportive.” M.S. 180 music teacher Kevin Heathwood continued to support her through middle school. “He really pushed me to become a better student in music and academic classes.”

Crystal uses her musical skills in a unique way to help her succeed in college. “For myself, if I’m studying for something, I’ll sing it to help me remember stuff. It’s very easy for me to help remember music. Learning that way has helped me achieve higher test grades.”

The future is looking bright for Crystal, and she would like to run her own theater one day. “I want to be part of the arts community, I love talking about theater. You’re not really doing a job, because you’re doing something you love.”

Thank you for supporting ETM and providing children with new opportunities, so, like Crystal, they can discover and follow their passions. Please share this report with a family member or a friend and invite them to join you on this mission.