Focus Area: Youth Development

Grant Amount: $8,000

Located in St. Paul. ComMUSICation is an intensive afterschool choral-based program inspired by the Venezuelan El Sistema program that uses music to inspire and motivate at-risk youth. Founded in 2013 and located in the Frogtown neighborhood, it serves families in a low-income area where few students are able to afford a high-quality music education. The program has two choirs and includes field trips to music community partners, mentorships for students with practicing musicians, and homework help.

Grant supports the newly launched RISE Choir program, a free music education initiative for low-income children in grades 3-5. RISE Choir was created as an extension of the original performance choir to better support young musicians, allowing for more tailored, age-appropriate experiences. Through a curriculum focused on musical literacy, vocal technique, social-emotional learning, and leadership, the children will build artistic skills, self-confidence, and a deeper understanding of self. Grant funds will support staffing and transportation for children, two of the most significant expenses with the RISE Choir program.