Our organization’s focus is Title I schools.
Claggett Creek, Houck, Leslie, Parrish, Stephens, and Waldo Middle Schools along with McKay and North Salem High Schools are being supported in 2024-25.
The Vision
Closing the opportunity gap by offering supplemental music instruction so that no dedicated student who wants to pursue music lessons is limited because of cost.
The Why
Students enrolled in music classes graduate at higher rates
Students learn valuable life skills such as responsibility, accountability, attention to detail
Students develop a strong sense of belonging and self-confidence
The Need
District music programs are outstanding with exemplary music teachers
Music students reach their highest potential by having access to lessons
2023-2024 Program Data
354 students served; 86 at two high schools and 268 at five middle schools
2,107 estimated lessons given covering 1,169 hours
34 MLP lesson teachers
Note: A majority of lessons began in October as intended. Many programs were so active that we extended initial contracts multiple times so that student lessons did not stop in February and could continue until end of the school year. Our top program use was 164% of what support was initially offered. We budgeted to be able to offer more support where it was most needed in places where usage was high. Our goal is to have lesson weeks from October into May resulting in deeper learning.
Testimonials from Teacher, Students, Donors
“The Music Lesson Project is a game changer for students. It is the most powerful initiative for positive results that I have worked with at any time during my 44-year career as a music educator.” Mary Lou Boderman, retired Coordinator of Music
“MLP provides equitable opportunity to a large population; we are grateful.” Music Director
Students impacted by receiving lessons are inspiring other students to want more in their musical pursuits.” Music Director
“The three students would cheer when I came in the room and fight over who got to go first.” MLP Teacher
“I saw lots of kids practicing at home and leaps and bounds of improvement.” Music Director
“I am provided this amazing opportunity to help me grow not only as a musician but as a person. With every lesson I am granted, I become more confident with my abilities and I constantly see improvement in all aspects.” High School Student
“I never thought a person like me who could not afford lessons would be taking lessons so I am very grateful that I am one of those students.” High School Student
“Personally, after meeting students and talking with them about lessons, hearing the excitement in their voices and seeing the animation in their reactions, I am thoroughly impressed with what The Music Lessons Project has been able to provide these kids.” Donor interviewing middle school lesson students