Impact
“Music has become a part of me, and whenever I play the violin I feel like I am transported to a calmer world. Playing clears my mind and helps me start from a new perspective. And for that I thank Seattle Music Partners, not just for helping me learn to play one of the most beautiful instruments ever created, but for giving me my love of music.”
– former SMP student, current Concertmaster, Garfield High School Orchestra
More elementary graduates continue with music. Over the years, we have worked with hundreds and hundreds of students, with countless grads continuing in their middle and high school orchestras, bands, drum lines, choirs, etc. In 2014-2015, more than 60 SMP grads were involved with music in the orchestras, bands, etc. at Washington Middle School and Garfield High School alone.
“Seattle Music Partners has had a profound effect on the students and the Gatzert Community as a whole. We have seen changes in student engagement, interest in music and in school itself. We are elated to have such a great partnership with such an influential program.” (Bailey Gatzert Elementary School Principal)
The positive impact of our program is also evident to school staff: “Seattle Music Partners and their volunteers are the best. Their program has improved our students' self-esteem, confidence, exposure to culture and academic performance” (Bailey Gatzert Elementary School Counselor) and to parents as well: “It has been a blessing to have your guidance for our daughter over the past two and a half years. Thank you very much!” (Parent of 5th grade student)
The effectiveness of our program is easy to see in the enthusiasm of our students and volunteers who return week after week and year after year. The children can’t wait to see their tutors and vice versa. Our recitals are over-booked, with students eager to show families and friends the pieces they have been working on and the progress they have made.