Joy of Music Program

CONTACT:

1 Gorham St.
Worcester, MA 01605
508-856-9541
www.jomp.org

Wendy Ardizzone, Director

DESCRIPTION:

This is a gem of a music school, whose excellence and excitement is shown by the size and scope of its curriculum, and the huge demand for its service. Students are taught in a supportive, non-competitive environment by outstanding faculty.

JOMP was founded in 1986 as a music and movement program for 12 children ages 4-6. By 1989 it was incorporated; today it has soared to an enrollment of 550 students from 2 to 70 years of age, offering all forms of music year-round, with private lessons for 300 students, chamber and jazz ensembles, dance, drumming, children's chorus and chamber orchestra. Its scholarship program and collaboration with neighborhood organizations engage students reflecting the diversity of Worcester itself. The high point of the year is a "Student Recital Week," with two recitals every night.

JOMP celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2006 and reported incredible growth; they more than doubled their budget (up 142%), and staff and faculty have increased by 56% and 60%, with 38% more students on three times the scholarships. JOMP alumni go on to leading music schools in the nation. Please help them continue on this trajectory.

(1997: CULTURE: Education: Formal: School-Related)