Music and performing arts are the birthright of all people, an essential way that human beings connect with others and explore their creativity

"If I had a friend who played piano I would tell them to go to Brooklyn Music School because they have the best teachers," Nika, age 12.

For 115 years, Brooklyn Music School has been dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or resources, can experience the joy of music and the performing arts. Our unwavering commitment to this mission has brought us to one of the most challenging periods in our storied history.

The arts and culture landscape in Brooklyn is characterized by institutions like BMS that have worked to ensure that arts education remains accessible and the cultural traditions that weave the fabric of our community are preserved and celebrated. Unfortunately, city and state budget cuts for the arts coupled with skyrocketing costs have impacted our ability to operate. With music education being increasingly cut back in public schools, your help is vital to ensure that BMS can continue serving our beloved community.

We stand now at a critical juncture in our history, one that could jeopardize the over 6,000 children and families BMS serves, losing access to arts programming, childcare, and therapeutic services as soon as July 8.

In light of these challenges, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of our June programming and furlough several key staff members, though rest assured the board of trustees and executive staff are tirelessly exploring all avenues of support, including state and local assistance, grants, loans, and corporate sponsorships. However, these funds are not guaranteed and will not suffice for our immediate needs.

We urgently need to raise approximately $100,000 to fund our summer programming, scheduled to commence on July 8. These funds are crucial to supporting our dedicated teachers and staff, ensuring that students at the Summer Institute receive the high-quality programming that BMS is renowned for, in a safe and nurturing environment. Canceling the summer program would be devastating for the families who have already enrolled their children and rely on us for childcare during the school break.

If you are able to support us, we would be immensely grateful. Any donation to this campaign will help us secure the necessary funds to address our immediate needs, support our staff, and build a sustainable future for BMS.

Thank you for your ongoing support, for sharing this post, and for being part of our family and most of all, thank you for believing in the future of BMS!

If you are interested in providing a large sponsorship or making an institutional gift, please contact contactus@brooklynmusicschool.org.

Saving Brooklyn Music School – Official Fundraising Page

Brooklyn Music School Needs Your Help Now!