Education through Music is truly an exemplary organization for non-profit music education programs. Their leadership is strong and dedicated, their model has proven positive outcomes time and time again, and their program effects the lives of tens of thousands of children in
Mission: Education Through Music, Inc. (ETM) makes music education a reality for thousands of children who would otherwise have limited or no exposure to the arts. ETM partners with schools that lack sufficient funding for school-wide music programs, and ETM ensures that every student enrolled in these schools receives weekly music instruction.
Since 1991, ETM has harnessed the power of music to enhance the academic performance and general development of its students. Our work provides these children with the skills to become better learners and the confidence to live in an increasingly challenging world.
Results: Findings indicate that students in schools that receive ETM perform better academically than students in schools with similar demographics that do not receive ETM. Students’ participation in ETM music class and school concerts contributes to creativity as well as to social and emotional capacities. The program encourages motivation for school in general.
• ETM supports students’ social and emotional development.
• ETM positively impacts students’ academic achievement: 84% of ETM students reported that music class improved their focus; 76% of middle school students said that music class increased their desire to go to school; upwards of 96% of classroom teachers believed ETM has enhanced students’ math, literacy, and critical thinking skills.
• The ETM program promotes stronger relationships between schools and parents and supported community engagement; 64% of ETM parents reported that they have been more involved in the school community since their children started ETM.
• Partner school leadership highly rated the overall program: 97% of principals and 98% of classroom teachers evaluated the ETM program positively.
Additional information is available at ETMonline.org/impact.
Target demographics: low-income children in grades Pre-K through 8th grade
Direct beneficiaries per year: 36,000 kids
Geographic areas served: New York City
Programs: ETM's partner school program provides tens of thousands of students in under-resourced NYC schools with access to music education as a core subject.
By providing quality music education to students and building support within school communities, ETM: provide students with musical skills and knowledge; supports growth in students' self-confidence and self-esteem; supports community involvement; and increases the capacity of partner schools to sustain music programs on their own.
Education through Music is truly an exemplary organization for non-profit music education programs. Their leadership is strong and dedicated, their model has proven positive outcomes time and time again, and their program effects the lives of tens of thousands of children in the NY area and beyond. As an employee of a grant-making organization and long-time supporter of ETM, we receive hundreds of requests for support each year. When we inevitably have to reject organizations that don't align with our mission and funding priorities, occasionally they will ask for examples of programs that we do support. ETM always comes to mind first, and I always find myself singing the organization's praises. We believe so strongly in what ETM is doing and are proud to have a hand in helping them make a different in children's lives through music.
I submitted a donation from an organization and ETM made it super easy. Even when the tax receipt did not reach me (postal service error), ETM was great to work with, everyone I interacted with was very polite, and the issue was quickly resolved. Great organization with a great purpose!
I have supported ETM and its mission for many years. It is wonderful to see how the organization has grown and continues to bring quality music education to many NYC schools.
Best of all is visiting a school and see and hear the excitement children show in their music classes. That spirit permeates the whole school environment.
I look forward to my next visit!
I am passionate about keeping music and the arts in our schools. The positive effects of bringing music to our children and exposing them to the enjoyment of learning how to play and being part of a band are life-long learning experiences. The staff of ETM do an excellent job of providing that experience. They involve the schools and the children by getting their commitment to the music program. You can see the effects by the comments from the parents on the changes in their children which goes beyond the music itself. It gives the students confidence and helps them in their other studies. I am proud to support ETM.
Last year, I saw a performance of students at a school in the Bronx. They performed for Joshua Bell. It was an experience I will never forget watching those students play their hearts out for Mr. Bell. They played beautifully and it brought tears to my eyes. No where else would these children had the opportunity to learn and play. I'm sure it's a memory they will never, never forget. I know I won't.
I continue to support this organization and am glad that there are people and organizations who understand the importance of the arts in children's lives and bring opportunities to experience music to schools where music, dance and art programs are cut from the curriculum.
It has been a great pleasure to make gifts to this organization for many years. Board members and staff are so devoted to their mission, and their passion is contagious. Knowing the wonderful impact they have on the children in their programs is so heartwarming.
