Introduction

Stephen Stills has been performing music for over 30 years and is probably best known for his work with Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills and Nash. In 1997 he was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his participation in both groups.

"Playing music is a wonderful opportunity for young people to experience self-expression and greater self-esteem. In addition, playing music with other people offers a unique way to communicate outside the boundaries of words and ideas. A person’s heritage, ethnic origin or situation in life don’t come up with you’re creating music together." Furthermore, studies have shown that the creative learning process in music and arts programs fosters an enhanced ability to learn traditional curriculum. Students who have this kind of experience average 50 points higher on SAT scores than students who have not.

Existing music programs for children have been hurt and new programs discouraged by the recent cutbacks in government funding. They desperately need assistance, both with funding and with promotion and public outreach. Our project will particularly focus on programs in poor areas that have been especially affected.

We will work closely with the Tides Center and other local community organizations as well as an outstanding, working Board of Advisors to help in any way we can to ensure quality music programs are available to any children who are interested in embracing the creative spirit."

Stephen Stills