Partnering with hundreds of music programs serving thousands of kids, data has shown conclusively that immersive music education programs could be the single, most effective way to engage students, build self-confidence and create community. This phenomenon is backed-up by neuroscience that tells us that active music training consistently improves brain function and literacy. As we know, literacy is a strong indicator of economic success. A 2018 report from the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading found that students who do not read at grade level by the end of 3rd grade are four times more likely to leave high school without a diploma.
“We have spent the last 30 years making it possible for kids to join and participate in music instruction programs in their communities multiple days per week for as long as possible in their education,” says D’Addario Foundation Executive Director, Suzanne D’Addario Brouder. Thanks to an incredibly generous donation from the late Rita and Herbert Z. Gold through their Charitable Trust, the D’Addario Foundation can now encourage students to dream even bigger. “This scholarship fund allows us to say to our students “not only will we provide you with music education, if you work hard and dedicate yourself to your academics and your music, we will help you pay for college.” The scholarship fund will cover the soft expenses of college such as books, food, and transportation and does not require a student to declare music as their major.
To receive college assistance scholarships, students must be actively participating in their community music program for at least three years, maintain a certain number of class hours, a minimum GPA, and mentor in their local community program. Students will be actively involved in choosing a higher education option that works for them and their families; many will represent the first generation in their family to attend college.
“Rita and Herbert Gold felt very strongly about arts education, equity, and giving back,” D’Addario Brouder says. “We’re honored to continue their legacy and nurture the continued success of a whole new generation of young people.”
