Share the Power of Music

Since 1999, A Gift for Music’s tuition-free string music education programs have served over 11,000 under-resourced youth across Central Florida. But we cannot do this transformative work alone—it takes a passionate, dedicated community to help our young musicians thrive.

Violin Vs. Other Instruments: Why Strings Build Discipline
What To Expect In Your Child’s First Violin Class 

Your Gift of Time Matters

For many of our students, receiving a violin or cello is their very first step onto a pathway of creative expression, self-confidence, and academic success. However, an instrument is only as powerful as the guidance behind it.

We rely heavily on qualified volunteer instructors, guest clinicians, and program assistants to nurture our students’ growth. By giving your time, you aren’t just teaching proper posture or note reading—you are stepping into a child’s life as an encouraging mentor, showing them that their voice matters and that their goals are well within reach.

Ways You Can Help Support Our Students

Whether you are a seasoned music educator, a passionate string player, or a dedicated community supporter, there are several meaningful ways to get involved:

  • Volunteer Instructors & Teaching Assistants: Assist our primary instructors during weekday after-school violin classes or Saturday ensemble rehearsals. Help lead sectional practice, tune instruments, and provide one-on-one encouragement.
  • Masterclass & Guest Clinicians: Share your specialized expertise, string techniques, or performance insights with our middle and high school orchestra students.
  • Event & Performance Logistics: Lend a hand behind the scenes during community concerts, seasonal showcases, and summer camps—helping with setup, student check-in, and stage coordination.
Top Skills You Need To Teach Beginner Violin Students

Volunteer Interest Form

“We take a lot of classes on teaching in school, we learn how to teach, but we don’t get a lot of hands-on classroom experience until our senior year. But thanks to A Gift For Music, I have had hands-on teaching experience since my freshman year. Working with the After-School program and Saturday strings, I get to make my own lesson plans, teach techniques, teach songs. It has been a true blessing and I feel so much better prepared now to teach than I would have without AGFM.”

Maddy, A Gift For Music Instructor and University of Central Florida Student

“Some words of wisdom for incoming students is to never give up, as cliché as that sounds, if it seems like something is frustrating you in the music, that means that you’re trying and you should keep up with that momentum. Never give up.”

Champ, A Gift For Music Student

“I’m getting to see these kids and instilling this new beginning in their lives that, hey, here’s new music and here’s a new avenue you can approach, and not just music on the radio, but something you can actively do to increase your own abilities.”

César, A Gift For Music Instructor and former student

“My words of wisdom for incoming AGFM students is to just be your truest self because you’re going to love every second.”

Lucy, A Gift For Music Student

“So excited my child gets to learn violin because I always wanted to learn and couldn’t afford the classes. Great to see it’s free and the violins are provided. She knows how to play the piano and I’m so eager to add violin to her music experience. I wanted to thank you for the opportunity on her behalf. I appreciate the fact that she can participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity. Thanks sincerely.”

A Gift For Music Parent

“Whatever event in life we go through, there are a thousand years’ worth of music written by people who might’ve felt the same.”

Zulieka, A Gift For Music Student