Palm Springs International Piano Competition

Through this grant, Palm Springs International Piano Competition will expand access to music education for Coachella Valley students by increasing the capacity of our Hands-On Keyboard Classes by 33%. Funding from Anderson Children’s Foundation will support the purchase of ten Yamaha P-125 digital keyboard bundles, enabling us to operate three classes simultaneously and serve significantly more students. This expanded capacity will allow us to offer six additional classes, plus a Summer 2027 workshop.

The need for accessible arts education in the Coachella Valley remains significant, particularly in underserved communities where many students have limited opportunities to participate in formal music instruction. Our Hands-On Keyboard Classes introduce students to rhythm, music theory, note reading, and keyboard technique in a fun, supportive environment. By the end of the course, many students are able to confidently perform multiple songs on their own. Beyond musical skills, students develop confidence, discipline, collaboration, and social-emotional growth. Through Anderson Children’s Foundation’s investment, more children will have the opportunity to discover their musical potential and experience the lasting benefits of arts education.

Contact: Tracey Essex, Managing Director

Email: tessex@psipc.org

Waring International Piano Competition dba Palm Springs International Piano Competition (PSIPC) has created an educational outreach program to provide access to music for underserved schools throughout the Coachella Valley. It is crucial that all students are able to engage in music and specifically, to have access to keyboards to learn basic piano. During our 2022-23 fiscal year (ended June 30), PSIPC provided instruction to three elementary schools. The 2023-24 fiscal year plan more than triples that number.

PSIPC requested funding for keyboard carrying cases and ancillary keyboard equipment. With Anderson Children’s Foundation’s support, we will be able to easily move keyboards and allow multiple programs to run simultaneously. Previously, we offered instruction to one school at a time and left the keyboards on site. The enhanced portability aspect will allow us to offer instruction to two different schools during the eight-week instruction period. Additionally, headphones will allow students to practice without hearing other students. This allows better focus and a keener understanding of their notes and sound structure.

Equipment will be purchased during Summer 2023. When the school year commences, PSIPC will be positioned to offer instruction to multiple schools beginning with Roosevelt and Earhart elementary schools in the Desert Sands Unified School District. Following the eight-week sessions at those schools, we will begin a program at St. Margaret’s for low income children.