Music Education at Shanti Bhavan

By Brittany Stone, Program Manager at Broadway for Arts Education

Witnessing the transformative power of music at Shanti Bhavan has been an immense privilege. Watching these children, who often come from backgrounds overlooked, develop their skills and express themselves through music is inspiring.

As Program Manager for Broadway for Arts Education, I firmly believe that the arts provide a vital outlet for students to share their stories, dreams, and experiences. Music becomes a safe space to explore emotions, celebrate their cultures, and envision a future they may have never thought possible.

This program has flourished, evolving from a modest beginning with a single music teacher and a 20-member choir. Today, we have weekly Zoom sessions with international educators, dedicated in-person music instruction, near-universal choir participation among 6th-12th graders, and a growing waiting list for private lessons. Watching these children explore their voices, master instruments, and collaborate is truly awe-inspiring.

At Shanti Bhavan, music education is a cornerstone of their development, cultivating confidence, teamwork, and creativity. Investing in arts education, particularly music, is crucial for the future of these children, fostering essential skills like problem-solving, perseverance, and collaboration.

It has been an honor to be part of their journey. At Broadway for Arts Education, we are proud to support Shanti Bhavan in creating an environment where students can truly thrive through the arts. Music education is not an extra; it's a fundamental tool for growth, empowerment, and hope.

Thank you to everyone who supports this incredible journey. Together, we are empowering these children to not only succeed but to soar.