Leslie Macedo, Senior Director of Programing and Mark Schulz, Senior Director of External Affairs discussed Dancing Classrooms and Musicopia, programs that deliver professional lessons in music and dancing to area classrooms. 

Founded in 1974, Musicopia’s mission is to provide equitable access to music education and enrichment, encouraging self-confidence, global awareness, dedication and joy in Pre-K to 12th grade students and their communities. 

It revitalizes school music programs in the Greater Philadelphia area, bringing over 151 teaching artists into classrooms at over 130 schools, with music that reflects that community and the students’ interests.   Programming includes in-class lessons, string orchestras and after-school  drumlines.

In addition to the classroom lessons, Musicopia’s Gift of Music program collects, repairs and places gently-used band and orchestral instruments in playable or reasonably repairable condition in schools and with students who are eager to play and are in need of a quality instrument.   The Lullabye Project, in conjunction with Carnegie Hall, allows parents and caretakers to create a special song for their child with professional musicians to discover new and fun ways to sing, move, and play together during family time. Music and play promote self-care and a child’s development.

Learn more about Musicopia programming at musicopia.net.

Dancing Classrooms, is a global program was launched in Philadelphia in 2007 to teach ballroom dancing, merengue, foxtrot, rumba, tango, swing, and waltz and selected “sugar” dances – such as the cha cha slide and stomp, to entire 5th and or 8th grade classes.  The program fosters teamwork and other social skills, giving students the confidence, connection, and community to take the lead in their lives.   Beyond in-class lessons they offer teaching workshops, and classes in Hip Hop, Latin and now, K Pop, there’s an end of the year performance and selected students are given the opportunity to represent their school at the optional Colors of the Rainbow Team Match events.  Schools can request lessons and fundraise the fees for teachers and costs; there are some limited scholarship opportunities. 

Learn more about the programming at dancingclassroomsphilly.org.

The programs will host a special party December 5, 5:30 to 7:30 at World Café Live.  High Note High Step, will celebrate the impact of Musicopia and DCP’s programs and the passion and artistry of their students in Musicopia’s 50th year.   There will be youth performances, inspiring stories, food, drinks, and a prize raffle.  Tickets are $50 or pay-as-you-wish.