From the Desk of the Executive Director

As a former business dean, I know how important it is to “build a business case” when sharing your enthusiasm. Some of the business leaders who visit Pearl Arts are not closely aligned with music. They may never have played an instrument or experienced the joy of creating music with others. Yet one thing unites us: we all want the very best for our youth and the community. When we look at the data, the “business case for music education” becomes undeniable. The research shows that exposure to music dramatically strengthens academic performance, cognitive development, leadership skills, and emotional well-being – the growth we hope every child will experience.  If we really want to help our children, exposure to music sets them up for the best possible chance of academic success.  The following research proves that music enhances academic growth in some of the following ways:

First,  exposure to music dramatically strengthens academic performance and cognitive development. Youth involved in music consistently outperform their peers in measurable, meaningful ways:

• 61‑point increase in SAT Verbal scores
• 46‑point increase in SAT Math scores
• 20% improvement in working memory, supporting focus and problem‑solving
• 22% higher performance on standardized reading tests
• 20% stronger outcomes in language arts, including vocabulary and comprehension

These gains extend beyond test scores — they demonstrate how music builds the cognitive foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and academic success.

Beyond academics, music cultivates human skills that shape confident, capable young adults. Research shows that music students demonstrate higher levels of leadership, including initiative, responsibility, collaboration, and peer influence.

Ensemble participation strengthens teamwork, empathy, and emotional regulation — skills that help youth navigate school, relationships, and life.  The research is dramatic – music helps shape children in ways far beyond their ability to perform music, fostering resilience and confidence. Music gives young people a place to belong, a way to express themselves, and a community that supports their growth.

This is why Pearl Arts matters. Our programs are intentionally designed to nurture the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally. We are not simply teaching music; we are shaping futures. Every lesson, rehearsal, and performance builds stronger students, stronger leaders, and a stronger community. When youth have access to music, they gain tools that last a lifetime.

As we move through the summer and prepare for the year ahead, I invite you to continue standing with us. Your support ensures that every child — regardless of background or circumstance — can experience the transformative power of music. Together, we can build a community where creativity thrives, leadership grows, and every young person has the opportunity to shine.

As the CEO and Executive Director of Pearl Arts, I find it very meaningful to meet with folks in the community who provide financial support, even though they may not be affiliated with music. The people of Fort Wayne and beyond understand the truth so well — offering direct exposure to music through scholarships helps provide academic opportunities while offering what we assume are only music opportunities, but life-changing opportunities for success.  I am personally inviting you to join us for this amazing opportunity – through music – to make a difference in the trajectory of today’s youth.

–Dr. Angie Fincannon, CEO and Executive Director, Pearl Arts