Music That Makes a Difference
Music is meant to be shared. Thanks to all The Organizations who help us spread joy, one note at a time
Community Outreach
Music shouldn’t live in a bubble. That’s why our students and teachers regularly step outside the lesson room to share their gifts with the broader community.
From children’s hospitals to senior centers, from food banks to nature reserves—we believe music has the power to brighten any space and connect us all.
Where?
Students perform at hospitals, senior centers, fundraisers, school and family gatherings, bringing live music to environments new to them and to people who need it most.
How Often?
Taking the spotlight can feel like a new experience – every time! Students have monthly opportunities to perform; the process becomes familiar and they easily learn to shine.
Why?
Creating stages for students provides them with real-world experience. Lesson goals are tested while students reach out to encourage and make new bonds with others through their music.
Community Outreach
Over the years, we’ve been honored to work alongside these incredible organizations:
Arts & Culture
- Carnegie Museum of Art
- The Frick Pittsburgh Museum and Gardens
- National Aviary
- Phipps Conservatory
- Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre
- Pittsburgh Children’s Museum
- Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra – Fiddlesticks
- Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium
- Point Park University
- UPMC Legacy Theatre
Education & Youth
- The Ellis School
- Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
- Hope Academy
- Montessori Children’s Community
- Pittsburgh Public Schools
- Shadyside Academy
- Winchester Thurston North
Healthcare & Senior Care
- Concordia at Villa St. Joseph
- Longwood Senior Living
- Masonic Village at Sewickley
- North Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center
- Passavant Hospital
- Pittsburgh VA Hospital
- Sherwood Oaks
- The Village (St. Barnabas Health System)
- UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
- Vincentian Home
- Wexford House Nursing Center
- Wexford Manor Care
Special Recognition
- The White House
- The Blue House
Local Organizations
- Aspinwall Presbyterian Church
- Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
- First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh
- Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
- Greater Pittsburgh Suzuki Institute
- Lauri Ann West Community Center
- North Hills Community Outreach
- Northland Public Library
- Off the Floor Pittsburgh
- Perry Highway Lutheran Church
- Pine Community Park
- Saturday Light Brigade Radio Productions, Inc.
- Suzuki Association of the Americas – Hurricane Relief
- West Louisville Talent Education
- Wexford Community Presbyterian Church
- Women’s Board of Pittsburgh
Why Community Matters
Here’s what we’ve learned after three decades: the magic happens when music moves beyond the practice room.
When a 5-year-old plays the violin for seniors, they light up at the familiar melody. When a teenager discovers that their guitar skills can raise funds for the food bank, when a voice teacher shares their recording of Brahm’s Lullaby with the NICU, all bear witness to the value of “you don’t pay love back, you pay it forward“.
These moments remind us why we do what we do. Music isn’t just about technique or theory—it’s about connection, joy, and the simple act of sharing something beautiful with others.
Want to Get Involved?
Students & Families: Ask your CYM teacher about upcoming community performance opportunities. It’s a great way to practice performing while making a real difference.
Teachers: We’re always looking for educators who want to expand their impact and students’ studio experience beyond private lessons. Opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing partnerships with the people and populations you particularly care about.
Community Organizations: We’d love to explore how CYM participants can help advance your music, health, and wellness-related cause by learning about your mission and/or providing live music.