The Music Lessons Project

Providing personalized music lessons to students with limited financial resources attending low-income schools in the Salem-Keizer Public School District

The Music Lessons Project

Providing opportunities for personalized music instruction to students with limited financial resources in the Salem-Keizer School District.

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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
  • An equity gap exists when a student family does not have resources to pay for lessons

 

2019-2020 Program Data

  • 368 students served; 106 at two high schools and 262 at five middle schools
  • 974 lessons given covering 777 hours
  • 69% of intended lessons provided before schools closed because of COVID

 

Testimonials from Teachers, 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