Orlando partnership hits the right chord, gives kids the gift of music

ORLANDO, Fla. — A partnership between the City of Orlando and the Steinway Society of Central Florida is hitting the right chord and teaching students how to hit the right note.

Nearly 30 students learned basic piano skills and how to play classical and jazz music over the course of a 10-week after-school piano program at five recreation sites in Orlando.

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Several second through fifth-grade Students showed off their new musical skills this week for their families and friends at a piano recital.

“Our neighborhood centers and our after-school programs offer children an array of amenities and programs that help them thrive,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Partnering with the Steinway Society Piano Program is another way the city is providing creative outlets outside the classroom for youth to explore and foster success through the arts by inspirational and supportive learning environments that enrich their lives.”

Orlando partnership hits the right chord, gives kids the gift of music Orlando partnership hits the right chord, gives kids the gift of music (WFTV)

According to a news release, not only did students enrolled in the program improve musically, but improved academically as well.

The release also stated that by analyzing both students’ report cards and parent surveys, the data showed that 100% of students either maintained or improved their academic performance, plus:

99% said their child performed better in school

99% said their child was more motivated to go to school

98% of parents said their child’s behavior improved at home

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“The arts are a vital part to students’ success,” said City Commissioner Robert F. Stuart. “We’ve seen such a commitment from the families and the students that it has had an impact on the students’ performance in school and at home. This program is a perfect example of how our city is committed to supporting our youth.”

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Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Steinway Society of Central Florida partnered in 2009 to provide free-of-charge piano lessons, instructors, and equipment to Parramore Kidz Zone youth at both the Callahan and Smith Neighborhood Centers.

In 2022, the program expanded to three additional sites, including Grand Avenue, Engelwood and College Park Neighborhood Centers.

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