Friends of South Florida Music, Inc.

Friends of South Florida Music (FSFM) has been providing free year-round youth arts activities for children/youth since 2016. Our Music FUNdamentals program has been offering Miami-Dade County public and private students of all abilities with music education since August 2017. Schools who have or are currently participating are Arcola Lake, Bent Tree, Frederick Douglass, Pine Villa and Tropical Elementaries, Kinderkids L, and Promised Land Academy.

The Music FUNdamentals program brings proven research-based instruction to low income schools and children typically available only to those from more affluent backgrounds. FSFM fills a gap, as most youth arts organizations serve older elementary, middle and high school students. In addition, music instruction is a required separate class provided by a music specialist in Miami-Dade County Public Schools until the second grade. Research shows that early childhood music education not only provides the building blocks for future music education, but also supports gross and fine motor skill development, social-emotional development, as well as spatial relationships and language development. Participation contributes positively to children's school readiness, their self-regulation ability, and their mental health. Simultaneously, teachers will learn positive, child-appropriate management strategies through observing the children's growing self-control and expression.

FSFM also sponsors music lessons for children who could otherwise not afford them. Our virtual and in-person performances invite students to play either individually, in ensembles, or with adults. Students can also participate in side by side performances as they join the FSFM Jazz and Jeans Band in local Miami venues. FSFM also encourages older students to become teacher assistants for South Florida Music classrooms. Community service is gladly awarded for participation.

FSFM pays for program teachers, and provides program musical instruments and materials.