Songcatchers announced today that it has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) in support of its ongoing mission to provide accessible, high-quality music education and enrichment opportunities for children and families throughout the community. The funding will help strengthen arts programming and expand opportunities for young musicians in New Rochelle and beyond.
Through New York State’s continued investment in arts and culture, NYSCA has awarded $80.9 million in FY 2026 to arts and culture nonprofits across all 10 regions and a historic number of artists.
“New York’s arts and culture sector is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, and we’re making bold investments to ensure it remains strong,” Governor Hochul said. “These grants will lift up artists and organizations in every region, fueling local economies and expanding access to the arts. Congratulations to all the grantees – your talent and dedication help power New York’s future.”
New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “During these challenging times, the New York State Council on the Arts has been a stalwart and innovative funder. These grants will serve artists and organizations in every region and county, fueling our economy and serving our communities. We know this support isn’t just an investment in the arts; it’s an investment in New York’s future. Congratulations to Songcatchers and thank you for your perseverance, your creativity, and your tireless service to New York State.”
“Songcatchers continues to enrich the cultural fabric of New Rochelle through its commitment to music education and community engagement. This NYSCA grant is a well-deserved recognition of the organization’s impact and will help ensure that children ages 3 – 17 have access to inspiring musical experiences, community service and creative opportunities throughout our community,” said Jennifer Lanser, Executive Director of Songcatchers.
Enrollment for its 2026 /2027 Instrument classes for children 3-13 as low as $15 a lesson in all instruments begins on June 1st. In addition, they are looking for Musician Volunteers in all instruments and have the following MENTOR positions available for next year starting in October 4-5:30 PM: Strings Music Educator, Band Music Educator, Piano Music Educator and Voice Music Educator.
Songcatchers also has availability for summer programming on a first come, first served basis. Summer Programming runs Monday through Thursday from June 30 through July 30. Programs include:
- Summer Music Program | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM | $125 per week (includes breakfast and lunch)
- Summer Instrumental Program | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | $125 per week (includes snack)
- Camp Songcatchers SLEEPAWAY CAMP – $595 for the week of August 2 – August 8 in Elizaville, NY (includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Families interested in registering may call (914) 654-1178 for additional information and enrollment details.
About Songcatchers
Located in New Rochelle, NY, Songcatchers began in 1978 with a small school choir, followed by a sleep-away choir camp before the organization was officially incorporated in 1994. Today, Songcatchers offers an After-School Music Program teaching 13 instruments and voice to children ages 7–13, an Early Childhood Program for children ages 3–6, a Choral Arts Program, and an Orchestra. @songcatchersinc
The Songcatchers mission is to provide accessible, high-quality music education, training, and enrichment for all. Students are offered a wide range of performance opportunities, community service experiences, and venues for sharing their music with the broader community. The organization’s unique model fosters community, mutual respect, kindness, self-esteem, leadership development, and equity in the arts. Programming is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, ArtsWestchester with support from Westchester County Government, and other generous organizations and donors.
