What motivated you to start MusicBreeds?

I started listening to and playing music as a child. I first played on a Casio keyboard and was so intrigued by all the possibilities that it utterly consumed my every thought. The motivation came easily, but hardship arose when trying to maximize my potential. My parents couldn’t afford lessons or formal training. I didn’t have mentors or foundational support to navigate me in the right direction. Though I wouldn’t express it, I was so frustrated. All I wanted was to play music.

From this experience and more came MusicBreeds, which was formed to give extra support to motivated young musicians from disadvantaged backgrounds. I wanted an organization that could provide mentorship and educational resources to help youth expand on their potential and make their dreams a reality—whether they wanted to play at a collegiate level or professionally.

What’s the goal of MusicBreeds?

MusicBreeds sets out to cultivate young musicians by inspiring and empowering them to be skillful musicians and by teaching them life skills, good work habits, the financial side of the music industry, and the mental and wellness aspects of self-growth.

How can someone help support MusicBreeds?

MusicBreeds offers many ways someone can get involved. We rely on professionals to help support our program. Those who meet the qualifications can volunteer as mentors or apply for a paid teaching position. These professionals are working directly with youth and providing them the skills needed to take the next step in their education and careers. Learn more about becoming a mentor or teacher.

MusicBreeds also needs financial support to ensure our programs are accessible to even more youth. We are at the start of an ambitious two-year Capital Campaign to raise $150,000. The funding raised will support capital improvements needed to facilitate our program. MusicBreeds also offers ways to provide sponsorship and in-kind support. Investing in our young musicians is life-changing for them and we couldn’t do it without community support.