240 Strings mentors and empowers young learners through free classical music education, concerts, and community.

About 240 Strings

At 240 Strings, we believe in the transformative power of classical music education. Our mission is to mentor and empower young learners through the beauty and richness of classical music, offering free education, concerts, and community engagement programs.

Founded on the principle that every child deserves access to the arts, we are committed to breaking down barriers and fostering a love for music among children from all backgrounds. Through our innovative programs, we aim to inspire creativity, instill discipline, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Our team of dedicated mentors and volunteers work tirelessly to provide enriching musical experiences, nurturing the talents and aspirations of the next generation of musicians. From one-on-one lessons to group workshops and community concerts, we offer a range of opportunities for children to explore and develop their musical abilities.

240 Strings is more than just an organization; we are a community united by a shared passion for music and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young learners. Join us on our journey as we strive to create a world where every child has the opportunity to unlock their full potential through the power of music.

Programs and Partnerships

*Free private and ensemble lessons: 30 weeks per year in violin, cello and piano; instrument and books provided.

*School classroom visits with Interactive Instrument Playground: Children experience chamber music and “meet” the violin, cello and piano up close.

*Written support of Portland Public School District leadership.

*Weekly Group Classes with LearningWorks After School.

*Lessons and classes with Portland Recreation Before and After School.

*Community Concerts: four per year; partnership with Maine Charitable Mechanic Association to house and use our baby grand piano and provide performance space; Most recent audience: 85-100 people.

Outcomes and Impact

*Strengthens listening, focus and persistence, which can help shrink the academic achievement gap faced by low-income youth.

*Develops capabilities that help students excel in school and beyond:

• Literacy and language development are enhanced by improved listening skills.

• Concentration improves the ability to focus attention in large, busy classrooms.

• Creativity provides children a means to express themselves beyond language.

*Develops Social-Emotional skills (SES):

• Self-awareness - Students gain confidence through recognizing their strengths and capacity for personal growth.

• Self-management - Studying music is inherently rewarding and shows students the direct impact of their own hard work; this builds motivation, goal setting skills, and perseverance. Regular performances develop patience and the ability to manage stress.

• Social awareness and Relationship skills - Working closely with their instructor and in ensemble with other students develops communication and teamwork skills, empathy and respect for others.

Funding Needs

*240 Strings is entirely supported by private donors, foundation funding and corporate sponsors.

*Resident Musicians perform several concerts each year as friend- and fundraisers.

*Ongoing expenses include administrative costs for scheduling, grant writing and coordinating partnerships, and operational expenses such as printing, website hosting, cloud-based software and postage.

Specific needs:

*Cost per Community Concert = $3000

*A year of lessons + supplies for one student = $2700

*Contributions towards general expenses

*Instrument donations are always welcome.