Service Projects
Music 4 Life
Rotary Music4Life is a collaboration among Seattle Public Schools, the Northwest Youth Music Association, and Seattle Rotary District 5030, partnering to expand music education for all children in Seattle Public Schools.
The creative concept for Rotary Music4Life™ was born in the fall of 2007 and is an ongoing program. The immediate goal is clear: put musical instruments in good playing condition into the hands of children and youth wishing to use them now. Procure the instruction, supplies and support (like instrument maintenance) to strengthen the elementary instrumental music program and ensure strong music programs throughout Seattle Public Schools.
The Music For Life organization is acquiring musical instruments, supplies and other resources from Rotary clubs in Seattle and
surrounding areas, and also from other citizens who understand the value of music in a child’s life. They work with instrument manufacturers, rental agencies, wholesalers, retailers, and others around the world who have access to serviceable musical instruments. Anyone who loves music and believes in music education for all children can join the effort!
Seattle Public Schools is a diverse family of 97 schools, serving 45,800 students in a dynamic, standards-based learning community. The
Seattle school district is the largest public school system in Washington, and the 44th largest in the United States. Rotary
Music4Life™ will begin by serving schools with immediate needs and high numbers of students on “Free and Reduced Lunch” (FRL)*, and then expand to serving schools district-wide. Most schools with high FRL rates are in southeast and southwest Seattle.
Music Education in Seattle Public Schools
Seattle Public Schools Visual and Performing Arts Goal: To build a comprehensive and equitable arts education program that fosters every
child’s creative capacities, and that is:
- Available to all students at all schools, regardless of income
- Aligned between grades, so that students follow a clear progression as they master skills
- Consistent with Washington State’s Arts standards
- Supported by parents, teachers, and community
- Sustainable, with public and private funding
Seattle Public Schools Music Plan.
*Students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches based on family income criteria established by the Federal government. The specific income requirements depend upon the size of the family and are adjusted every year.
Contact Music For Life
For more information about Rotary Music4Life™, contact:
Dick Lee, Director
Office of School Partnerships
Seattle Public Schools
PO Box 34165
Seattle, WA 98124-1165
Tel (206) 252-0476
Or visit the Music For Life website.