Instruments for Change: Invest in Scholarships, Advanced Training, and Arizona’s Only Overnight Music Camp!
Why It Matters
In Arizona, only 43% of students are enrolled in music education, and 79% of schools spend less than $1 per student per year on arts education. SOUNDS Academy exists to change that by providing accessible, high-quality music education to underserved youth. Since 2014, we’ve:
- Provided 55,000+ music classes and lessons
- Given over $350,000 in scholarships
- Maintained a 100% graduation and college acceptance rate among our students
Each year, we serve over 2,500 students through four key programs:
- Musical Access: Live performances and Instrument Petting Zoos
- School Programs: Group instruction with provided instruments and materials
- SOLO Program: One-on-one lessons and K–12 mentorship
- The Collective: High-level ensemble experiences, including The Soul Revue and Jazz Bands
We also host Arizona’s only overnight music camp, where students build skills in performance, theory, and character development.
What it's for:
Phase I of Instruments for Change is a $500,000 campaign to support:
Scholarships for Graduating Seniors
Providing support for students to excel in colleges and universities so that they are able to return to impact their communities
Scholarships for Advanced Students
Funding high-level opportunities like competitions and national camps in a variety of fields to help students succeed after high school
Overnight Music Camp
Ensuring continued access and scholarship to Arizona’s only immersive overnight music summer camp experience
Sustainable Growth
Laying the foundation for a bright future of SOUNDS Academy, which includes a Performing Arts Center