A nonprofit organization based in Arlington is on a mission to double its outreach by engaging the community more actively. Play it Forward, an initiative by Piano & More, offers free piano lessons and mentorship to low-income students. By launching new sponsorships and applying for grants, the program aims to grow significantly. Currently serving five students, the nonprofit aspires to expand its impact while promoting the mental health benefits of music.

The organization also seeks to educate others about how playing an instrument can alleviate stress and enhance emotional well-being. Through partnerships with local businesses and foundations, Play it Forward hopes to extend its reach and support more young musicians across Arlington and Fairfax counties.

Broadening Access to Music Education

Piano & More's initiative focuses on providing underprivileged children with opportunities to learn music. The program currently serves five students but aims to include at least five more by next April. This expansion will involve hiring additional instructors and potentially reaching another school within Arlington. The executive director emphasizes the profound influence these lessons have on individual lives despite the small number of participants.

Play it Forward was established in 2018 to address the financial barriers associated with learning musical instruments like the piano. Recognizing that becoming a pianist often requires significant resources, the program strives to make this art form accessible to all. By partnering with schools and foundations, the nonprofit secures funding necessary for growth. Furthermore, Kovar envisions a world where every household nurtures a musician, highlighting the importance of music education for personal development.

Music as a Pathway to Mental Wellness

In addition to expanding access to music education, Play it Forward highlights the psychological advantages of playing an instrument. As anxiety and depression rise among Northern Virginia's youth, the organization underscores music's role as a therapeutic outlet. Engaging in music provides a screen-free activity that encourages emotional expression and mindfulness.

Kovar is keen on integrating mental health strategies into music lessons, transforming them into holistic learning experiences. She believes that teaching children to manage stress through music not only enhances their well-being but also equips them with lifelong coping mechanisms. By fostering an encouraging, non-competitive environment, Piano & More ensures that students develop a love for music while gaining valuable life skills. Outside of Play it Forward, the organization continues to offer private lessons to approximately 100 students across Arlington, Falls Church, and McLean, emphasizing happiness and performance over competition.