PIANOS FOR PEOPLE
AT A GLANCE

Pianos for People inspires successful futures by providing free access to the transformational power of the piano. For families and individuals with limited resources, we break down financial barriers and leverage the piano as a gateway to empowerment, community and self-esteem.

In an environment of support, inclusiveness and equality, we do this four ways:

Inspiration: Free Pianos

Education: Free Lessons and Workshops

Community: Free Special Events

Enrichment: Free Summer Music Camps

HISTORY

2012

Tom and Jeanne Townsend founded the organization in honor of their son, Alex, a musician and artist, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 21.

2014

We opened our Free Piano School in South St. Louis in November 2014, and have since more than tripled our student body, providing access to quality lessons and workshops to more than 140 regular, weekly students.

2016

At our Ferguson Studio, which opened October 2016, we offer three days of classes, lessons and workshops, extending and deepening our reach in that community.

HIGHLIGHTS

Since December 2012, Pianos for People has sourced, serviced and delivered over 300 free pianos to people, non-profits and underfunded schools and families, who could not otherwise afford one. To date we have served over 10,000 people through this program.

In addition to music education, we stress personal growth and empowerment, including confidence building, self-discipline and a sense of pride.

Our free summer music camps run for six weeks over the summer, offering a quality program for more than 160 youth during out-of-school hours.

We are an integral part of the St. Louis piano ‘economy’ — we are a major and consistent employer of piano teachers; camp counsellors and interns; piano technicians and moving companies. We have rescued many pianos from landfills.

Super Theory Saturdays, Piano Slams, Recitals and the PFP Music Festival are just a few of the free community events we offer throughout the year. These are opportunities for us to bring the community together, as well as engage new potential students.

Success in significantly growing and diversifying our income streams demonstrates that our passion and commitment is backed by organizational and strategic strength.