Not all students like to perform. But all students enjoy finding a new sound to explore or a new rhythm to play, a new picture to look at, a story to write, a drawing to make, or an emotion to express. Turning music into an imagined story helps students devise their own interpretation for every piece. Students feel a sense of pride and ownership when their unique interpretation is a part of their playing! Students are encouraged to compose and improvise. We also connect practicing to fundraising projects every year in which students find someone to sponsor their practicing at a few cents per minute over a six-week period. In general, each student raises an average of $25. These funds go to a new partnership every year that is connected to the music we study. We have partnered with our local Audubon Society to help save the endangered Kemp’s Ridley Turtle; the Music School at Lincoln Center in Tirana, Albania; and the Rapa Nui School of Music (constructed entirely of recycled plastic, bottles, and tires) on Easter Island, Chile. In 2021-2022, we will study music by composers of color and partner with an urban music school that funds lessons for students of diversity in need through scholarships.