As PROJECT MUSIC enters its 11th season, Co-Founder and Board Chair Joyce DiCamillo reflects with deep gratitude on the journey that began more than a decade ago. This summer has been both emotional and inspiring: she has mourned the loss of her dear friend and co-founder Christel Truglia, celebrated the extraordinary leadership of Executive Director Gabrielle Molina as she steps into a national role with El Sistema USA, and looked ahead to an exciting new chapter with expanded programs and community partnerships. Through it all, Joyce is reminded that the heart of PROJECT MUSIC is its students and families, its devoted teaching artists, and the unwavering support of this incredible community—together, they continue transforming young lives through the power of music.

This summer, PROJECT MUSIC students experienced a season of music, growth, and opportunity through a series of enriching programs—from our local King School Summer Session to national and international initiatives like the New England Music Camp, the YOLA National Festival, Baltimore’s Peabody Innovation & Music Academy, and our collaborative INTEMPO x PROJECT MUSIC program. These experiences allowed our young musicians to strengthen their skills, build confidence, and connect with a broader musical community, reflecting the transformative power of music made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and partners.

PROJECT MUSIC is proud to announce that our Executive Director, Gabrielle Molina, has been selected as the inaugural Director of Programs for El Sistema USA, the national organization representing 140 El Sistema-inspired programs across the country. Gabrielle’s appointment is both a personal honor and a testament to the extraordinary work and impact of PROJECT MUSIC on the national stage.

Her journey from clarinet teacher in 2018 to transformative leader has strengthened our organization, expanded opportunities for our students, and elevated our profile within the national movement—a legacy that will continue as she transitions into this new role while remaining an integral part of the PROJECT MUSIC family.

PROJECT MUSIC is proud to share that our work is featured as the lead editorial in the latest issue of The Ensemble, the international publication connecting music educators and advocates worldwide. Written by outgoing Executive Director Gabrielle Molina, the article highlights PROJECT MUSIC’s decade of innovation in youth development through music—spotlighting our community-building methods, collective composition approach, and leadership in hosting the El Sistema Residency. This international recognition affirms the impact of our local work on the global stage and underscores music’s power to create meaningful social change.

This summer, PROJECT MUSIC joins forces with INTEMPO for a four-week string program designed to enrich the musical journey of Stamford youth. As part of our “Stronger Together” initiative, this collaboration brings expanded learning, diverse teaching perspectives, and greater community impact. All PROJECT MUSIC string students receive full scholarships—registration is now open!

On Thursday, May 29, the King Performing Arts Center in Stamford was filled with music and excitement as PROJECT MUSIC presented its annual Finale Concert. Students, families, and community members came together for an evening that showcased the incredible progress our musicians made throughout the year.

We’re proud to celebrate Nidia and Daphne Cosgrave—PROJECT MUSIC Parent Committee President and Treasurer—on their graduation from Stamford’s Parent Leadership Training Institute. Their powerful community projects on domestic violence and school safety show their deep commitment to advocacy and positive change.

We’re proud to share that our Executive Director, Gabrielle Molina, has been selected for the prestigious Elizabeth L. Mahaffey Arts Administration Fellowship! This opportunity will support her participation in international training that deepens our impact through music and social inclusion.

For the third year in a row, PROJECT MUSIC proudly partnered with Stamford’s Mayor’s Youth Employment Program (MYEP) to host a summer intern. This year, Othniel Ndayisenga, a graduating senior from Westhill High School, gained hands-on experience in inventory and administrative work—building valuable skills and confidence under the mentorship of our team.

In April, PROJECT MUSIC students performed at the SPEF Gala and King Cares Family Service Day—two powerful celebrations of music, service, and community. These events showcased our students' artistry while strengthening partnerships that uplift young musicians across Stamford.

The King School recently welcomed the UCONN Pep Band as part of their showcase program, creating a memorable musical experience for PROJECT MUSIC students. During their visit, the collegiate band members performed for the audience and led sectional rehearsals where PROJECT MUSIC students practiced two dynamic pieces—the UCONN Husky Fight Song and Snoop Dogg's "What's My Name"—for a collaborative performance.

We are thrilled to celebrate Marcos, a talented trombone student from PROJECT MUSIC, who recently took on a unique and exciting role as the Spanish translator for Toy Story in Concert with Orchestra Lumos.