In the Community

Our Community Music Services extend the benefits of music education and therapy beyond our home base in Fort Washington, PA and into the Greater Philadelphia area.  The Crescendo, Forte and Harmony programs deliver the benefits of musical experience to the groups who need them the most, from preschoolers and school-age students to senior citizens.  Last year, the Academy’s Community Music Services brought the gift of music to over 3,500 individuals and families.  Explore our offerings to see how the Academy is making a difference in the community.


In addition, Community Music Services is currently expanding!  We are developing a Musical Pathways initiative that continues the musical development of our children after they have completed the award winning Crescendo Music Program.   For more information, please see the PowerPoint presentation available for download below:

   COMMUNITY MUSIC SERVICES:
  Helping families and communities
     grow together through music



Quick Facts:

* Our Community Music Services have reached more than 30,000 children at risk, seniors and people of all ages with disabilities at centers in diverse communities throughout Greater Philadelphia.

* Since its inception in 1985, our Crescendo Program for preschool students at risk has brought the gift of musical experience to over 25,000 children and families.

* According to our most recent demographics, 40% of Crescendo children have a diagnosed disability, and 85% come from low-income families.

* Crescendo is the primary music program for KenCrest Early Intervention Centers, and the only weekly program in the School District of Philadelphia’s Head Start Centers.

* Crescendo children have performed in concerts featuring international celebrities, including André Watts, Bill Cosby, David Amram and Stevie Wonder.

* The first recipient of our Distinguished Alumni Award, David Himmer, began studying piano in the Crescendo Program at the age of 5.  A winner of the Ambler Symphony youth competition, David is now an accomplished pianist, organist and percussionist who performs at numerous music festivals.