Donors & Supporters
Most students learn about UpBeat through word of mouth, referrals from current families, schools, community organizations, and neighborhood events. Demand for our program consistently exceeds available space, and we maintain a waiting list for new students.
UpBeat is completely tuition-free. We believe every student should have access to a high-quality music education regardless of financial circumstances.
Our instruments are made possible through the generosity of individual donors, foundations, corporate partners, and community supporters. Our in-house professional luthier maintains and repairs all our string instruments with assistance from our paid luthier student interns. We are proud that UpBeat’s luthier workshop actually builds string instruments from scratch on-site. These instruments go directly to our students.
No. Students are provided with instruments, music, and instructional materials at no cost.
Yes. As students demonstrate readiness and consistent participation, they are able to take instruments home so they can practice between classes. This allows students to make meaningful progress while learning to care for their instruments.
Most students attend UpBeat two to four days each week, participating in a combination of group classes, ensembles, and, when appropriate, private or semi-private lessons. As students advance, many choose to participate even more frequently through additional ensembles, public performances, leadership opportunities, and paid internships.
UpBeat currently serves more than 230 students each year through tuition-free music education in the South Bronx.
Providing a comprehensive, tuition-free music education—including instruction, instruments, performances, mentorship, and instrument loans—costs approximately $5,000 per student each year. Every contribution helps ensure that students and families can participate regardless of their ability to pay.
Financial contributions of any size help provide tuition-free music education, instruments, performances, and mentorship for young people. Monthly giving offers dependable support throughout the year, while larger gifts can help expand programs and reach more students.
Yes! We welcome donations of quality instruments in good playing condition. Please fill out our Instrument Donation Form and we will reach out to you with more information.
UpBeat welcomes volunteers who are passionate about supporting our mission. Opportunities vary throughout the year and may include special events, administrative projects, and other community engagement activities. Please contact us to learn about current volunteer opportunities.
Yes. UpBeat NYC is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. A donation receipt will be provided for your records.
Families
UpBeat serves families residing in the South Bronx. Families are invited to submit a New Student Inquiry form to express interest in the program. Enrollment is based on available space, and most new student inquiries are placed on our waiting list. We contact families as openings become available.
UpBeat welcomes new students throughout the year as space becomes available. Because demand for our program exceeds available openings, most new student inquiries are placed on our waiting list. We review inquiries on an ongoing basis and contact families as openings become available.
There is no tuition. UpBeat is completely free for all participating families.
UpBeat serves children and youth ages 5 and up in the South Bronx. Placement is based on a student’s age, experience, and available space in the program.
UpBeat is located in the Mott Haven section of the South Bronx. Program activities take place at our main site as well as select partner locations throughout the community.
Students have the opportunity to study a variety of instruments, including violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, percussion, piano, and voice. Instrument placement is is guided by student interest, program capacity and instructor recommendations.
Not at all! Many students begin with no prior musical experience. Our teaching artists work with students at every level, from complete beginners to advanced musicians.
No. UpBeat provides instruments and instructional materials to students at no cost.
Yes. As students demonstrate readiness and consistent participation, they are able to take instruments home to practice between classes. Students are expected to care for their instruments and bring them to each lesson and rehearsal.
Most students attend two to four days each week, depending on their age, instrument, and level of study. Students are also encouraged to practice at home, and more advanced musicians may participate in additional rehearsals, performances, leadership opportunities, and paid internships.
Yes! Students perform throughout the year at community events, neighborhood celebrations, and formal concerts. Performance opportunities increase as students develop and are an important part of the UpBeat experience. Sign up for our newsletter to receive information about upcoming events.
Yes. We periodically offer opportunities for prospective families to visit rehearsals or attend performances to learn more about UpBeat. Please contact us if you are interested in scheduling a visit.
Families are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the program. We strive to schedule programming in ways that are accessible to the communities we serve.
When space becomes available, our staff will contact your family with next steps, including enrollment paperwork, orientation information, and a start date. We look forward to welcoming new students into the UpBeat community