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​Harmony Project KC harnesses the transformative power of music to increase access to higher education for underserved students by removing systemic barriers to achievement through academic and social support.
Music may be how children enter the doors of the Community Center, but once here it is so much more. Our vision is that in a neighborhood with 25+ languages spoken, cultural differences, and challenges, music is the universal language. It is the vehicle to growing a stronger community with thriving families through increased access to prevention services focused on mental health and well-being of children. Key activities are:
- Free instruments and lessons in a variety of ensembles
- Regular performance opportunities at iconic venues throughout the city
- Workshops with internationally accomplished artists
- Academic support through the Path to College program
- Group music therapy
- Wraparound services through the Care Services program
We serve 325+ talented, hard working, and bright students from loving families! Here is more information about the population we serve at Harmony Project KC:
51+ schools represented
6-18 years old
85% children of color
82% qualify as low income based on free and reduced lunch rates
60% of HPKC parents are English Language learners
20% of program parents do not yet hold a high school diploma or equivalent
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Harmony Project KC is an affiliate of Harmony Project Los Angeles.
HPLA Model & Outcomes:
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Won the nation’s highest honor for an arts-based youth program by the President’s Committee on the Arts & Humanities.
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Recipient of the White House's "Bright Spots in Hispanic Education" Award.
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Harmony Project students consistently defy the odds with 95% college acceptance rate, and an average of 7 years’ participation in the program.
Published research on Harmony Project students has shown:​
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90% of students showed improved focus/discipline
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Students were reading on grade level by third grade, as compared to non-participating peers
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​73% improved academic achievement
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71% improved family communication
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44% improved self-esteem
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95% graduated from high school and attend college
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Music improves children's language learning and acquisition, reading, and ability to hear through noise. (Research performed on Harmony Project students by Dr. Nina Krauss, Northwestern University).
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10-year study at Brown showed that arts-based programs produced more powerful results than sports or community service programs.
