McFadden’s journey shows the impact of music education, which is highly valued in Philadelphia’s schools and community programs. The Philadelphia School District invests millions in arts and music each year. However, during the 2015-16 school year, officials evaluated whether this money was making a real difference.
“We created our arts and creativity framework to make schools more vibrant with art,” said Frank Machos, who oversees Arts & Creative Learning in the district. “Our goal is to enhance creativity across subjects and provide an inclusive environment for all students.”
A 2023 study from the University of Southern California highlights the importance of these programs. It revealed that music education boosts students’ well-being, helps them build important life skills, and strengthens their ties to school and the community.
“That’s why the arts are crucial for a child’s overall education,” said Conyers. “When arts programs disappear, students dream less and aspire less. Learning to play an instrument teaches problem-solving and teamwork—skills that are useful outside of music too.”
Conyers’ nonprofit, Project 440, focuses on helping young musicians develop both their craft and life skills. Their flagship course, “Doing Good,” encourages students to create service projects that connect their musical talents with community needs. They present their ideas to a panel in a “Shark Tank” style format for a chance to win $500 to kickstart their projects.
“Students learn project management, communication, collaboration, and budgeting through this process,” Conyers explained. “We use their passion for music to inspire exploration in other life areas.”
One notable outcome of this initiative is Generation Music, co-founded by Chloe Cooper and Claire Casanova in 2018. Both are graduates of the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. Their nonprofit provides free or affordable music education to underserved neighborhoods.
“We were part of the first class in Project 440’s ‘Doing Good’ program,” said Cooper, now executive director of Generation Music. “They equipped us with the tools we needed to launch our idea.”
Another success is Oleksandr Kashlyuk, a graduate of the Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush High School. He now serves as an Airman 1st Class in the U.S. Air Force Band of the West. Maya Lindsey, a Masterman graduate, is studying at the Curtis Institute of Music. In November 2024, both musicians debuted as substitutes with the Philadelphia Orchestra—an achievement many dream of.
McFadden reflects on how music has fostered lasting friendships and professional connections. “We grew up in these programs, sharing wins and losses in auditions. That creates a true sense of community,” he shared.
Source link
creativity sparks success,pennsylvania education
