By Winslow Corbett

What’s better than enjoying a live concert? Enjoying a live concert while supporting access to music education!

On Saturday, June 3, Bloomingdale School of Music (BSM) invites the community to its 23rd annual “Performathon”: a student-driven fundraising event to support BSM’s scholarship opportunities. The students’ campaign began May 8 and will culminate in this “performance marathon” day of live music performances at the school, located at 232 West 108th Street, between Riverside Drive and Broadway. This year, Peformathon also includes a BBQ and craft activities for kids.

Over the past decade, Bloomingdale has awarded more than $2 million in tuition assistance and aided thousands of families in pursuit of a musical education. Performathon’s fundraising initiative supports students who receive financial aid through the Project Bridge and Music Access Project (MAP) programs. Over 125 students receive some aid, with an average of $150,000 in need-based financial aid awarded each year. BSM offers support for students of any age and ability level, from early childhood to adult learners. Bloomingdale projects they will give out over $280K in financial aid this year.

The Project Bridge program is a full scholarship program for talented middle and high school students who cannot otherwise afford private lessons. Project Bridge nurtures a student’s musical talents through a weekly private lesson with a gifted teacher. Teachers work with students to build on their strengths and show them how to grow their skills on their instrument. The musical development from lessons allows the students to pay it forward and contribute more in their school band or orchestra.

MAP (Music Access Project) is a three-year, pre-college scholarship program with a mission to prepare talented and deserving students, regardless of financial background, for acceptance into conservatory, college, or university. MAP serves a select group of 15 to 20 students annually in a musically intensive after school program, with both jazz and classical curricula. Students receive a weekly 60-minute private lesson, weekly chamber music coaching sessions, and theory class. MAP currently offers need-based scholarships up to 100% coverage.

Founded in 1964, Bloomingdale School of Music is dedicated to the belief that music changes lives and everyone should have access to high-quality music education regardless of economic status, race, religion, ability level, or gender. Bloomingdale is a music-driven community center where all are welcome to join and learn about music from top faculty. For more information, please visit www.bsmny.org.

2023 Performathon: Saturday, June 3, 2023

Performances: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
BBQ: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ($10 ticket)
Kids Activities: Scratch Art and Bracelet Making 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm ($5 ticket)
Winners Announced & Raffle Drawing: 5:00 pm

Reservations are encouraged and may be made here.