Our Story
Play On, Philly! (POP) is an innovative education and social
initiative that provides opportunities for personal development
to children through the study of music. Inspired by the social
development and music education program of Venezuela, El
Sistema, POP seeks to enrich the lives of Philadelphia youth
by providing daily musical instruction in communities which have
little access to music education.
Established in 2011 at St. Francis de Sales School in West
Philadelphia, POP started with 110 youth ages six to thirteen
with the goal of making a significant and sustaining impact on
their lives. By expanding gradually, the program is able to stay
flexible to curriculum adjustments and responsive to community
needs. We strive to engage the entire community through
partnerships, community events, and a season of twenty-five
performances in venues across the Philadelphia region.
Our Mission
Play
On, Philly! (POP) focuses on providing an environment of
opportunity through the collective practice of music in
orchestral playing and choral singing as models of academic and
life skills development, social organization and community
building. POP provides an educational and social preparedness
program while developing musical knowledge and performance
skills at a high level.
Our Goals
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Developing goal-directed behavior and skills that increase
academic and social success
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Improving self-esteem and self-perception so that students
can achieve their full potential
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Increasing academic motivation, achievement and school
attendance
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Imparting musical knowledge and performing skills at a high
level
Our Core Values
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Every human being has the right to a life of dignity and
contribution.
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Each child can learn to express music and art deeply and
receive its many benefits.
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Effective education is based on love, approval, and
community experience.
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There is no such thing as a musical disability, only musical
possibility within each child.
