Causes: Arts & Culture, Arts Education, Education, Elementary & Secondary Schools, Literacy, Music

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.