Membership

In order to provide all children with opportunities to advance musically and develop a strong relationship with their program, students have access to at least 5 hours of programming per week. (There may some aspects of your program that don’t meet this threshold.)

Programs have the organizational infrastructure to support and run an equity-based music program, including dedicated staff and financial resources for the program.

Programs are of high quality; defined by quality teaching and instruments, regular musical instruction, and established practices for measurable outcomes. Measurable outcomes may include musical and artistic growth, community development, and personal growth.

Programs commit to investing in students over multiple years, serving children for a minimum of 3 years, and aspire to serve them through high school or connect them with partner feeder programs when they age out. Curriculum follows progressive scope and sequence over multiple years, fostering student musical growth and advancement.

Primarily serve children with financial access barriers to high-quality music programs. Provide programs in a manner that work to ensures equal access to all children regardless of income, geography, or identity.

Embeds community voice and partnerships into the operations and programming of the organization.

Embed scaffolded opportunities for youth voice, leadership, and creativity into the program and curriculum. Provide mentoring and paid internship opportunities for students.

Emphasize ensemble programming as a core element of curriculum. This may be in addition to group classes and private lessons as available.

Commitment to support holistic student development through joyful music making, including relationship & community building in the classroom, development of social emotional skills, and broader opportunities such as higher education.