Why It Matters
In Arizona, only 43% of students are enrolled in music education, and 79% of schools spend less than $1 per student per year on arts education. SOUNDS Academy exists to change that by providing accessible, high-quality music education to underserved youth. Since 2014, we’ve:
- Provided 73,000+ music classes and lessons
- Given over $500,000+ in scholarships
- Maintained a 100% graduation and college acceptance rate among our students
Each year, we serve over 2,400 students through four key programs:
- Musical Access Program: Exposing children to live music and instruments through our Instrument Petting Zoos
- School Program: Teaching the fundamentals of instrument learning through group instruction that take place during and after school
- SOLO Program: Teaching one-on-one lessons and providing mentorship for students in grades K-12
- The Collective: Teaching ensemble experiences through diverse genres such as Soul Music, Jazz, and Composition
What it's for:
Phase I of Instruments for Change is a $500,000 campaign to support:
Scholarships for Graduating Seniors
Providing support for students to excel in colleges and universities so that they are able to return to impact their communities
Scholarships for Advanced Students
Funding high-level opportunities like competitions and national camps in a variety of fields to help students succeed after high shcool
Overnight Music Camp
Ensuring continued access and scholarships to Arizona’s only immersive overnight music summer camp experience
Sustainable Growth
Laying the foundation for a bright future of SOUNDS Academy, which includes a Performing Arts Center
We encourage you to consider donating to the Instruments for Change Campaign so that one day, every child, regardless of their zip code, has access to the transformative impact of music education and character development, in order to foster personal growth and strengthen communities.
