PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra's Creative Communities program is dedicated to music study for children who are underserved by the arts. Participating children, ages 6 - 12, live in the Pawtucket Housing Authority. During the school year, Creative Communities consists of after school and Saturday classes presented by the music school's musicians/teachers in choir, violin, viola, guitar, and percussion. Sound Leadership, a program component, encompasses teen leadership training. The teens work with the musicians/teachers and the children taking the Creative Communities classes, and are responsible for organizing events, field trips to concerts, walking children home, and assisting with set-up and record keeping. PROJECT OUTCOMES: The Creative Communities program has improved children's music skills, developed self- sufficiency, provided opportunities for families to enjoy music together, and developed a sense of community within the Pawtucket Housing Authority. The children have also improved their communication skills, their cooperation with peers and adults, increased their self-esteem and self-control, and increased their music appreciation and their music skills. The teens who participated in the Sound Leadership program gained meaningful employment, leadership, and mentoring abilities. Back to YouthARTS Grantees CONTACT: Kathy Czerny, Director Creative Communities/Sound Leadership 222 Richmond Street Providence, RI 02903 T: 401.272.9877 http://www.ri-philharmonic.org/