Kate Phillips, teacher at PS 449 (Bronx) Grant Ave Elementary School

I first partnered with Musica Viva in 2011, coordinating volunteers for an outreach event. We welcomed, served pizza to, and enjoyed instrument demonstrations and a concert rehearsal with a handful of neighborhood children and families.

I remember the delight seeing the children awestruck by the performances and parents beaming at the opportunity to share such a unique musical experience with their sons and daughters. Since that spring, I've served up many more pizzas, and witnessed many fine performances through Musica Viva.

By lending services and time to Musica Viva, you receive so much back. Aside from the free pizza (always a bonus for the young and cash-strapped!), I have experienced gorgeous concerts featuring the works of Bach, Brahms, the Beatles, and beyond-all free of charge in exchange for volunteering. I've watched children marvel at Walter Klauss' organ virtuosity then sample a few notes themselves on the instrument, and been consistently impressed with the organization both in terms of their musicality and generous outreach initiatives. Thanks to Wally, the choir, and the indomitable Julie Brannan managing most aspects of the ensemble and its outreach, families across the city have benefitted greatly from coming into contact with Musica Viva.

The outreach efforts in particular resonate with me, as I teach music to children right here in the city. For the past four years, I have taught elementary general music at a public school in the South Bronx. Witnessing a second grade girl play the organ for the first time, its massive sound echoing through the All Souls Sanctuary by just a touch of her finger, is a joy. I often connect with children at Musica Viva's outreach events by talking with them about their school's music program and the musical experiences they have had prior to the event. Some have rich music programs offered through their school; some do not. I see the impact of music and musical learning on my own students every day and am grateful that they are fortunate enough to have the outlet to listen to, perform, and create music in my classroom.

Geographic and economic limitations, however, prevent my students and families from taking in the majority of the cultural opportunities for which New York City is world-renowned. I can only offer so much in the classroom in terms of authentic musical performance experiences; most ensembles or field trips require funds we simply cannot afford.

As a result of the positive collaboration with Musica Viva, Julie Brannan and I are coordinating a new partnership between my school and Music Viva for the 2013-2014 year. I am thrilled for the array of opportunities this initiative will create for my students and their families: school visits from professional musicians, pizza party dress rehearsals for families to engage with musicians and high quality musical works, perhaps even concert tickets for a few families. I cannot wait to introduce my young musicians to the ensemble and vice-versa!