The Music Lessons Project

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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

2021-2022 Program Data

  • 263 students served; 81 at two high schools and 182 at five middle schools

  • 1087 lessons given covering 685 hours

  • 23 MLP lesson teachers

Note: Most began after the first of the year since students needed the earlier time to reacclimate to being in class together before starting activity such as lessons.

2020-2021 Program Data

  • 85 students served; 36 at two high schools and 49 at three middle schools

  • 841 lessons given covering 480 hours

  • 20 MLP lesson teachers

Note: Fewer students participated due to Covid and all online-lessons. Most lessons were given individually rather than in the usual small group lesson model. Since funding was available most participating students had more lessons than typical.

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

  • 35 MLP lesson teachers

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