Dear BMS Family,

The Brooklyn Music School staff and I are deeply troubled and frankly heartbroken by the events unfolding in our country, around the world, and right around our Brooklyn block. It has been a week filled with saddening news and devastating turmoil. We at BMS would like to communicate the following in support of our cherished community:

• The staff and I stand with our immediate community and communities across the globe who have peacefully protested against the profound injustices of systemic racism and police brutality. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of George Floyd, and to the families of all who have lost loved ones because of these continuing societal ills. 

• It is important for us to convey that Black Lives Matter. We combine our voices as one chorus to denounce the persistent, brutal, and unconscionable treatment of black people in our community and country. 

• The Brooklyn Music School was founded by and in the service of immigrants 111 years ago. Diversity and accessibility have always and continue to be fundamental principles in our mission. We are proud to be an integral voice in one of the most vibrant and diverse places on Planet Earth. We will continue to be a haven for people of all backgrounds, ages, and circumstances .   

• The BMS team has always regarded music as a bridge to bring together people of all creeds and interests. 

• Some of BMS’s core programs celebrate  African-American culture. Programs in African Drumming, African Dance, Hip Hop Music and Dance, and of course, Blues, Rock, and Jazz are prominent in our curriculum. We are committed to the preservation of these unique contributions to our American culture. 

• We believe that education through music is a way to ensure a future of equality. In BMS Outreach we provide music programming to over 30 schools and senior centers throughout the borough. While  we currently serve a broad and extremely diverse student body, we are proud of our history of also serving our African-American community over the past 50 years.   

• BMS is committed to using our platform and the channels of music to provide both children and adults of all identities with ways to amplify their voices, acknowledge their feelings, and address the psychological trauma they may be experiencing.

• If you are able, please consider donating to the  George Floyd’s Memorial Fund and becoming engaged  for further action in support of fairness and justice for  people and communities of color.

In Solidarity, 
Piruz Partow, Executive Director, and the BMS Leadership Staff