THE PIANO AS A GATEWAY – OUR IMPACT

Measuring and evaluating the social impact of Pianos for People is an important part of our work. We have created a framework that will help us collect the data to further support our activity and inform the best possible outcomes. We conduct both qualitative and quantitative research, and in addition have a sophisticated data-base and registration system that allows us to track demographics, attendance at lessons, events, etc.

While the program’s mission and vision are backed by an abundance of research showing the positive impact on musical education on families and communities, Pianos for People feel that it is important to measure and evaluate the extent it is impacting its target population directly.

FOCUS GROUP KEY FINDINGS – WHAT OUR FAMILIES ARE SAYING

LOVE OF THE PROGRAM

Pianos for People has created a joyful and exciting learning environment.

SENSE OF COMMUNITY

PFP’s creative special events, emphasis on parent involvement and inviting spirit of inclusion has created a strong sense of community.

QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION

One of the strongest themes expressed is the exceptional quality of the instruction, where students are encouraged to learn but not pushed too hard. Our teaching staff is highly commended.

MORE THAN MUSIC EDUCATION

Participants expressed that PFP is far more than music education. It is about personal growth, and character-building including confidence building and sense of pride.

STORIES OF IMPACT

Royce Martin is a composer, recording artist and award-winning pianist. He received a piano from PFP in February of 2016 and soon began his first formal training with us. He had previously taught himself to play on a small keyboard on his lap. His exceptional natural talent was quickly revealed, and in 2016, Royce won the St. Louis Teen Talent Award. He has performed at several high-profile events including a performance for the Mayor, and one at Powell Hall.

His prodigious talent and extraordinary dedication have been featured in numerous articles and TV stories including national attention on NBC SUNDAY TODAY.

With the mentorship and coaching of Co-Founder, Pat Eastman, and support of Pianos for People donors, Royce attended the prestigious Indiana University summer piano camp in July 2017, winning “Most Improved Player.”

Royce Martin is now attending his “dream” school the Berklee College of Music in Boston- one of the world’s most prestigious musical institutions.

Nicholas Murphy started to teach himself to play the piano watching YouTube videos at the St. Louis library when he came to the attention of someone who directed him to Pianos for People. Nicholas dropped into one of our Piano Slams two years ago, and immediately made an impression. The very next week, he started two lessons a week. PFP Board member, James Butler agreed to mentor him, and with his help Nicholas was able to participate in an international student exchange in Japan through the AFS – his first trip out of St. Louis. That trip gave him the confidence to pursue a summer music program at Carnegie Mellon University in 2018, and PFP helped him to secure the scholarship funds.

In May 2019 – Nicholas Murphy was offered a full, four-year scholarship to Carnegie Mellon University, where he will pursue International Affairs and a Music Minor.

 

Doss and several of their siblings participate in Pianos for People lessons, workshops and camps, as well as our community events. Their interest level shows no bounds ― they continually strive for improvement and constantly seek enriching opportunities. Doss has also gained valuable work experience as a paid intern with Pianos for People, both in administration and as a mentor to the younger children at camps and lessons. Through Pianos for People, they were connected with Job Corps and received a High School Equivalency Diploma and job training. The family also received a free piano, which quickly became the centerpiece of the home.

DEMOGRAPHICS OF THE POPULATION WE SERVE

There are currently over

students enrolled in the Free Piano Schools in Cherokee and Ferguson for regular, weekly lessons.
Age ranges are 4–74, with the majority (71%) between the ages of 7–15.

%

of our students are African-American, 14% Hispanic or Latino and the remainder represent a variety of backgrounds

%

of our students participate in more than one activity
Our retention rate is over

%

%

of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch

%

have household income less than $25,000 and the remainder has an income between $25,000 – $34,999

%

ARE GIRLS

%

ARE BOYS
We reach approximately

MORE PER ANNUM

through our free special events, enrichment activities and summer camp programs.

We deliver approximately

PIANOS PER YEAR

to people of all ages, and underserved schools. Since December 2012 in our various programs, we have served over 10,000 people.