Mission Statement
Hands On! A Musical
Experience, Inc. was founded based on the idea that
children should have music as part of their lives. We
believe that learning about music not only increases
young people’s appreciation and understanding of this
art form, but also enriches every aspect of their lives.
Many studies have shown that music enhances other
learning, such as the acquisition of language, listening
skills, math skills, auditory discrimination, social
understanding, and personal discovery. Our objective is
to offer children an introductory course in music in an
environment that is both fun and nurturing. Ultimately,
we hope to inspire a passion for music in every child.
Hands On! A Musical Experience, Inc. opened its first
location on the Upper East Side of Manhattan on November 15th,
1999. Opening late in the fall season, the response to the
classes was overwhelming. During the following session, half-day
classes turned into full day classes with a wait list as long as
the class list. This was a clear indication that we had created
a children's music program that had enormous appeal.
In September 2000, we opened our second location on the
Upper West Side on Columbus Avenue. Word of mouth spread,
filling the classes to capacity. Spring of 2001 had us
scouting out a new location in the downtown Tribeca area of
Manhattan. Drawn by the uniqueness of the area, Hands On!
III opened in June 2001 for a mini spring session. By 9/11,
five days after beginning the fall session, we had
registered over 200 students. Deeply affected, but
undeterred by this catastrophe, we forged ahead. We added a
new arts program in Studio 2, and in the future we hope to
develop the lower level and construct a shoebox theatre and
a dance studio to create an arts center.
Demand for more classes on the East Side led us to the
Turtle Bay area of Manhattan. On November 15th of 2002 -
founder’s day and our third anniversary - we opened Hands
On! IV. In a newly renovated townhouse, we created a
beautiful classroom with a lovely garden serving as a
backdrop.
To learn about our teachers, our philosophy and the
people who founded Hands On!, please use the links below.
