Our Mission
“America’s Youth Music Program”, based in Schenectady, NY and housed in the Schenectady YMCA, provides an oasis for underprivileged children to gain rich exposure to the world of classical music. This is accomplished through teaching children how to play classical instruments such as the violin, cello and clarinet. Using classical music as a platform, this project plays a vital role in developing important skills for our youth members such as self-confidence and discipline, while also sharpening their cognitive skills. All of which are critical to being successful in life.

What Are Our Core Objectives?

1. Provide a rich learning environment where youth members are taught to play classical instruments
2. Participate in quarterly classical music recitals
3. Participate in monthly community service projects involving classical music performances at senior nursing homes
4. Maximize exposure to classical arts through yearly trips to concerts at places such as Carnegie Hall and the NY Philharmonic
5. Develop a strong support system through an Arts mentoring program

Our Program America’s Youth Music Program’s home base is located at the downtown Schenectady YMCA facility. Here, our students are immersed in the classical arts, particularly learning how to play the violin. The method we teach our students is the Suzuki method, which is a way of learning how to play music. As part of the Suzuki method, our students learn music pieces by ear and the instructors help the students in learning how to read sheet music. Our program emphasizes excellent posture, technique and performance skills all of which are thoroughly utilized during recitals, which are regularly scheduled throughout the year. These recitals play a critical role in developing our students’ self-confidence and gives them a great platform to put their newly learned violin skills on display for family members and our sponsors.