Arturo O'Farrill Brings Music to Schools
Summary
Six-time Grammy winner Arturo O’Farrill discusses his nonprofit Belongo, which provides free music education to over 2,500 students in NYC public schools, homeless shelters, and Rikers Island. He emphasizes that music serves as a tool for building community and fostering diversity, rather than just training future musicians. The conversation also covers the organization’s new East Harlem cultural center and its plans to integrate modern music production techniques into its curriculum.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Music classes in NYC public schools
Guest bio: Arturo O'Farrill and Belongo
New initiatives: Casa Belongo and Times Square residency
Programs for homeless youth and the philosophy of access
Scale of Belongo: 2,500 students and Spanish-speaking artists
Music as a tool for community and global connection
Listener call: Availability of school bands in Queens
Impact of budget cuts on arts education in NYC
Listener call: Kids Creative Collective and theater arts
Collaboration with elders and immigrant communities
Listener text: Integrating modern music production tools
Future plans: Hip-hop, turntables, and production classes
Music programs for incarcerated youth at Rikers
Closing: Shout-out and move to The Pocket jazz club
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