FIVE ESSENTIAL PROGRAMS

Music Education

The MPAEF funds a number of key programs and supplies for the District’s innovative music programs. We help fund the purchase of musical instruments, musical scores as well as master teachers, Artists-in-Residence and new music technology.

The Concert at Keppler’s is just one example of the programs that MPAEF funds help to deliver. Last spring, 400 District string and band students assembled in front of Kepler’s Bookstore in Downtown Menlo Park for the 13th annual “Magic of Reading” celebration.  Parents and community members filled the plaza in front of the bookstore to enjoy a wide variety of music. This annual Friends of the Menlo Park Library event has historically served as a fund raiser for Belle Haven Library but it has also grown into a showcase for the MPAEF-supported District music program.

“MPEAF supports the district’s music program in so many ways. Through the Jeanie Ritchie grant program, numerous visiting artists, including the Grammy Award winning Turtle Island String Quartet, have enriched our children with songs of the world, drum circles and jazz workshops. The Foundation also helps to provide every child the opportunity to play an instrument by supporting the repair of existing and the purchase of new instruments. At last count, there were over 300 instruments in the district. Without the Foundation’s help much of our growth would not have been possible. “

—Richard Vaughan Music Director, Hillview School

 “The Foundation funds a lot of exciting programs at Hillview. One of my favorite things is the School of Rock with Mr. Vaughan. Can you believe we get to listen to and play great music in class? We’ve also been learning about new and old artists and how they influence modern day culture. One of the first songs we learned was the Beatles’ classic, “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” We also get to play with our friends and to pick our own music. It’s been fun learning how to function together as a real band. Thank you for letting us do this!”

--Chad Brock, 8th Grader, Hillview

Watch the Video regarding the MPAEF's role in funding Music and Science!
("Fund A Need" - QuickTime .mov format)