When families apply for admission, we request a statement from every child. “Why do you want to study music at the Joy of Music School?” we ask them. We tell the kids to answer either with words or in a drawing, or both.

When I go through their replies it’s always revealing, often emotional, and, at times, hilarious. The recurring theme is eager anticipation and a child’s vision of themselves with music in their lives. Most of our kids have never had a music lesson. They’ve never had an individual teacher working with them every week. They’ve always held music as something they love, and they want more of it. They are not sure what to expect, but they know they want it.

The range of responses is astounding. One student, age 13, drew an elaborate picture of a band on a stage, labeling it “Playing worship music at Madison Square Garden.” Another, 14, wrote: “I am taking voice to get over my stage fright. I am taking piano to better myself with note names and all of the other musical terms.” An 8-year-old drew a long, sturdy grand piano, with strong legs and wheels, a piano bench and a simple human figure with a smiling face. He drew a prominent curving arrow pointing at the smiling face, with the label “Me.”

There are hundreds of student statements in our files. Each represents potential, anticipation and a vision of one’s future self through music. We, as stewards of these dreams, are inspired to bring reality to those visions, and to expand on them whenever possible. It’s truly a privilege and a joyous responsibility.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Francis Graffeo

Executive Director

 

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