What if every student had the chance to pick up an instrument, sing alongside professional musicians, or discover a musical tradition from halfway around the world?
That’s exactly what Music Share is all about.
At The Ashokan Center, we believe music has the power to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and create lasting community. Through Music Share, we’re bringing outstanding folk and roots musicians directly into Hudson Valley schools with free assemblies, after-school programs, and classroom residencies made possible by the generosity of our donors.
Music Beyond the Classroom
Throughout the school year, students from schools across the Hudson Valley will experience interactive performances featuring music and traditions from around the world.
This year’s lineup includes programs celebrating:
- Balkan and Ukrainian music and culture
- Bluegrass
- Banjo traditions
- Scottish fiddle music
- Son Jarocho from Veracruz, Mexico
- Paris jazz inspired by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli
- Old-time square dancing
- Ukulele music
- Interactive sing-alongs with Winter Hoot artists
These aren’t concerts where students simply sit and watch. They’re hands-on experiences filled with storytelling, movement, singing, rhythm, and participation that encourage students to become part of the music.
Learning Continues After School
Music Share doesn’t stop when the final school bell rings.
This fall, The Ashokan Center is partnering with Onteora Middle School to launch three new after-school music programs that give students the opportunity to learn an instrument, build friendships, and grow their musical confidence.
Students can choose from:
- Ukulele Program — 8 sessions beginning Tuesday, October 6
- Fiddle Program — 11 sessions beginning Tuesday, September 15
- Drum Program — 6 sessions beginning Thursday, September 17
The programs are designed for beginners and experienced students alike.
Ukulele students will learn chords, favorite songs, and even write music of their own. Fiddle students will explore traditional tunes from around the world with guidance from guest instructors Jay Ungar, Aldo Lavaggi, Austin Scelzo, Ruth Ungar Merenda, and Lina Auerbach, culminating in a family performance. Drum students will experience rhythm through movement, storytelling, and percussion while exploring traditions from West Africa and beyond.
All instruments are provided, helping remove financial barriers and making music accessible to everyone.
A Partnership That Continues to Grow
According to Ruth Ungar Merenda, Music Share has become an ongoing effort to connect local schools with meaningful musical experiences.
The after-school flyer created by Onteora Middle School is just one example of that partnership. In addition to the new clubs, the school has already confirmed three in-school Music Share assemblies for the coming year, featuring Balkan musicians, a banjo program, and an interactive Paris jazz performance.
It’s one of many schools benefiting from the initiative, with additional performances taking place throughout the region during the school year.
Made Possible Through Generosity
One of the most remarkable things about Music Share is that participating schools receive these experiences free of charge.
Every assembly, workshop, residency, and after-school program is funded by The Ashokan Center and the generosity of donors who believe every child deserves access to music, creativity, and cultural exploration.
Their support allows students to discover new instruments, meet world-class musicians, and experience traditions they may never have encountered otherwise.
Building Community Through Music
Music has always been at the heart of The Ashokan Center.
Whether students are singing together for the first time, learning their first fiddle tune, keeping rhythm on a hand drum, or discovering music from another culture, they’re doing more than learning notes—they’re building confidence, connection, and community.
That’s the spirit of Music Share.
And thanks to our generous supporters, that music will continue reaching classrooms throughout the Hudson Valley for years to come.