Midori and Friends is a New York City

New York City

New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...

 based philanthropic organization that provides musical education for underserved public school children. Founded by virtuoso violinist Midori Goto

Midori Goto

is a Japanese American violinist. She made her debut at the age of 11 in a last-minute change of programming during a concert highlighting young performers by the New York Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta. When she was 21, she formed the philanthropic group Midori and Friends to help bring music to...

in 1992, the organization provides both concerts and lessons to students who wouldn't otherwise have the benefit of music in their schools.

Programs

Depending on the needs and resources of the school involved, Midori and Friends provides a few different programs.

Making Music

Making Music provides standard music lessons to classes of children by way of teaching artists. These classes focus on a single instrument, such as violin, cello, clarinet, or guitar.

Adventure Concerts

Midori and Friends also provides concerts to school, often accompanied by workshops that center around a specific culture or musical style. Concerts will occasionally also be provided after school for children and their parents.

Adventures in Sound/First Adventures in Sound

Adventures in Sound and First Adventures in Sound are programs intended for very young children who aren't yet prepared to play instruments but can expand their mind through musical engagement. Activities include singing and writing songs.

Quotes

"Midori & Friends has become a cornerstone of music instruction for students throughout New York City."

—The New York Times, April 23, 2006

Amazing, exhilarating, and invigorating define our school's relationship with Midori & Friends. These adjectives speak to how this partnership has transformed the way the arts are integrated at our school. Our partnership has enabled our school to uplift children and their families through the richness of music."

—Dr. Peter McFarlane, Principal, P.S. 180M, Harlem