Dr. Suzuki believed that EVERY child could learn to play music to a high level. In our present-day communities, we find it relevant to add that every child can and has the right to ACCESS. Suzuki knew, and Suzuki teachers who follow in his footsteps see, that learning to play the violin helps children develop problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, social/emotional intelligence, perseverance, grit, commitment, and a sensitivity to beauty that fills children with wonder and joy for their whole lives. Suzuki called this process of learning developing “noble hearts.”
In honor of his grand mission, and because every child deserves equal access to this profound education, I work through a program called MusicLink to offer merit-based scholarships to minoritized Black, Brown and Indigenous students with the goal of increasing much-needed equity of access and diversity in the arts. This is a serious scholarship program designed for families who value the arts but find costs prohibitive.
How it works:
Open to Black, LatinX and Indigenous families with children ages 3-6 (at time of application). Special consideration will be given to families in Bed-Stuy, East New York, Brownsville, and the Ingersoll and Whitman public housing complexes.
No musical experience necessary.
An adult family-member must attend an orientation meeting prior to enrollment.
A family-member should be able to make a commitment toward attending classes with the child, and being able to practice with the child daily.
Families must commit to daily listening of the reference recording.
Currently this program is only open to beginner students who have not played violin before.
Students must show good attendance, good punctuality, and development of good practicing habits during the course of the first year.
Equipment:
Violins, music books, and other equipment may be provided free of charge or at a discount.
To Apply:
Register for an information session using the "To Apply" button below.
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