At VMA, we celebrate every new student because joining means going beyond the traditional lesson experience. These young musicians are not only developing their musical skills—they are choosing to share those skills with others, serve their communities, and discover what their music can do beyond the practice room. They’re learning to play with purpose.

“It’s the choice of a new generation 🎸” - Pepsi, Waynes World. Our students suggested broadening the circle of support for earning National Service Awards—so while family support still matters, the majority of Sweet Sounds of Service funds should come from beyond the immediate household.

VMA Club Oaks Christian School shares their first rehearsal of 2026-2027!

Though they are at different stages of their musical journeys, Natalie and Colette are joining a growing community of young musicians who see music as more than something to practice and perform.

Alison’s connection to VMA goes back more than a decade. Early in her musical journey, she performed with VMA at Massachusetts General Hospital, bringing music and moments of relief to patients, visitors, and hospital staff. Today, she continues that spirit of service by mentoring the next generation of young musicians.

We’re excited to welcome Ally Santos, founder of Ally Santos Music Studio in Las Vegas, Nevada, to the VMA Foundation community!

Meet Paris, a high school member of the VMA Foundation Junior Program from Arlington, Texas.

Just like his fellow members, this courageous elementary school pianist is joining a growing community of young musicians who are discovering that music can be more than something we learn—it can be something we give.

We’re proud to celebrate Elysses Kuan of EKS Music School, named “The Most Influential Music Educator to Watch in 2026” by The Enterprise World. Even more meaningful to us is how EKS is carrying forward a philosophy we share at VMA Foundation through their 2026–2027 theme.

We’re excited to welcome Caleb from Corona del Mar, California, to the VMA Junior Program! With plans to build a school club of up to 40 students, Caleb hopes to use music to bring people together, create joy, and inspire fellow students through service and leadership.

A VMA Junior Program member recently brought the gift of music to Kirkwood by the River in Alabama, sharing a performance with residents and demonstrating how young musicians can use their talents to connect, serve, and bring joy to others.

VMA Foundation proudly congratulates Junior Program member Henry Saperstone on being selected as a U.S. Open Ball Crew member! 🎾🇺🇸

We wanted to share a brief update regarding the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) and an encouraging development from AmeriCorps.

Join the VMA Foundation’s Giving Society and help sustain our mission while gaining priority access to the Giving Society Concert Series.

It’s time educators had the support they need to bring their students’ music into the community. Discover the new VMA Foundation Educator Outreach Grant.

The VMA Foundation is excited to welcome Elizabeth “Liz” Payne to our Board of Directors this fall. Liz joins the VMA community with a strong professional background in finance, bringing experience as a CPA and financial consultant to the organization.

David Glushkov, a Newton native and rising junior at Commonwealth School in Boston, is someone whose life is shaped by two major passions: piano and fencing.

Yuna is an elementary school student at Florida Ruffin Ridley School in Brookline, Massachusetts, and a talented flutist who is already discovering how music can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Elle is a student at Mt. Everest Academy in San Diego, California, and she is already bringing a wonderful vision for music, service, and leadership to her community.

Stewardship is the second pillar of VMA. By participating in service initiatives, students learn that music can be used not only to serve others, but also to steward resources that strengthen communities and support those in need. Our shared impact model is built on a simple principle: we give what we can.