By Geraldine Inoa | Grant Writer
Happy Fall from ETM!
Two months into the school year, with in-school music classes in progress, our partner school students are on their way to becoming better learners with more confidence and greater motivation for school. Because of your generous contributions, nearly 27,000 students across low-income communities in New York City are receiving music as part of their regular school routine, including 4,000 students in our brand-new partnerships.
One of the partnerships you helped us launch this year is P.S./M.S. 214 in the Bronx. The school is located in the West Farms neighborhood and serves over 1,000 students in grades PreK–8. Over 98% of students are of color, 88% qualify for Free or Reduced Price Lunch, 11% are English Language Learners, and approximately 18% have special needs.
Recently, a magical moment happened in music class. One of the school’s ETM music teachers was preparing his eighth grade students for their upcoming winter concert. The class was learning the West African song “Sansa Kroma,” a challenging piece in Akan (a language spoken in Ghana).
The music teacher asked the class for a volunteer to lead a verse. Miguel, a warm and energetic child, turned to his best friend Rafael and whispered, “You should go. I know you can do it.” Rafael is very timid. He seemed apprehensive but then nodded and raised his hand. The whole class turned to watch. As Rafael began to sing, his face lit up, and he grew more confident with each verse. It was a marvelous transformation!
Rafael revealed he had a beautiful voice and the bravery to overcome his fears. After he finished, Miguel gave Rafael a big hug. Miguel was so proud that his best friend had conquered his shyness and shown the class just how skillfully he could sing. It was a sweet moment that brought the class together.
Music education provides students with a nurturing, supportive environment that helps them develop self-esteem and build camaraderie while tapping into their natural musical talents and abilities.
We are excited for all our partner school students’ winter concerts, coming up this December and January. Because of kind supporters like you, thousands of economically disadvantaged children are growing academically, artistically, and personally through the wonderful gift of music. We are grateful for your generosity. 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.
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