Friends of South Florida Music, Inc.

Friends of South Florida Music (FSFM) provides music education, enrichment, and developmental activities free of charge in under-resourced communities by implementing a research-based curriculum, teacher development training, and community engagement initiatives in disadvantaged Miami-Dade schools. Our Music FUNdamentals curriculum serves school populations with a high percentage of minority students, including children with disabilities and special needs—those often enrolled in Title I schools.

Studies have shown that Title I schools in impoverished communities display the greatest disparities in access to quality education, arts instruction, and resources. These schools often serve students of color and students with disabilities who are less likely to receive arts-based learning experiences. FSFM works to close this gap by enhancing education through the power of music—helping children become confident, creative, and capable individuals who contribute positively to society and the workforce.

A key finding from the National Endowment for the Arts report, The Arts and Achievement in At-Risk Youth (Catterall et al., 2012), found that eighth graders with high levels of arts engagement from kindergarten through elementary school achieved higher test scores in science and writing than peers with limited arts exposure. This research reinforces FSFM’s mission and approach.

To meet this need, FSFM provides free, year-round, weekly 30-minute music classes to schools without a formal music program. Through our curriculum, we foster growth in fine and gross motor coordination, auditory learning, listening comprehension, and self-regulation skills.

A longitudinal study of the Music FUNdamentals curriculum found that participation not only improved musical ability but also increased linguistic development and non-linguistic skills such as spatial awareness. One of the program’s most significant outcomes is the transformation of non-verbal or avoidant students into active, joyful participants who contribute positively to their classroom community.

FSFM also serves as a STE(A)M education provider, integrating music with a systematic approach to problem-solving. Through hands-on, play-based learning, students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and create. The most profound impact of this approach lies in the confidence, perseverance, and teamwork that children develop through musical exploration.

Our weekly classroom presence builds trust, confidence, and empowerment among students and teachers alike. Music-making becomes an expression of shared purpose and emotional safety. Over time, previously disengaged students begin to participate, showing measurable increases in focus, confidence, and collaboration.

FSFM measures success through multiple indicators—increased student engagement, teacher and parent feedback, and professional observations of improved cognitive and emotional development. Public performances provide additional evidence of progress, as students proudly share their achievements with families and the community.Through our efforts, FSFM ensures that every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to experience the lifelong cognitive, emotional, and social benefits of music education.