Kids 4 Harmony Celebrates 10 Years Blending Music And Social Services
A decade of music opportunities sponsored by 18 Degrees exemplifies the power of music to make change.
18 Degrees President and CEO Sarah Cook, Pamela Breslin, Andrew Breslin, V.M.D., and Neil Farnam
Ten years ago, by instituting a music program for kids in Pittsfield’s public schools, 18 Degrees (then Berkshire Children and Families) set out an ambitious plan — Kids 4 Harmony — involving musical excellence, student well-being, and family support. All of that was celebrated at Ozawa Hall on the Tanglewood grounds on June 23. Kids 4 Harmony has grown to include schools in North Adams, and many of the early students have gone on to have careers in music. Sarah Cook, president and CEO of 18 Degrees, thanked guests, program volunteers, and especially parents and siblings for the love and support they’ve provided to the talented young musicians. After a reception, guests headed to the main act: performances by the various ensembles including a movement of Mozart’s piano concerto No. 20 in D Minor, performed with the students by soloist Jiayan Sun, who appeared as a last-minute guest when longtime K4H supporter Emanuel Ax was unable to perform. 18 Degrees provides education, parenting skills, advocacy, and life skills across a spectrum of programs serving children, young people, and families, all qualities on display that evening.
Written by
Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
