A Year of Music Lessons
—at no cost to your family.
The Mary Ellen Northrop Endowed Fund for Music Education makes high‑quality instruction available to Delaware families earning under $150,000 per year. If your child (ages 6–18) has ever said “I want to learn an instrument,” this scholarship removes every barrier.
Free
A year of lessons
6–18
Ages Eligible
$150K
Household Income Cap
Included
Instrument Rental
Three simple steps to a year of music.
From first lesson to lifelong skills — we make it easy for families to get started.
Try a Sample Lesson
No pressure, no commitment. Just see how your child responds to music in a warm, encouraging environment.
Get Scholarship Support
If it’s a good fit, our team guides you through a quick, friendly process to determine Northrop eligibility.
Watch Your Child Grow
Confidence. Creativity. Focus. A sense of belonging. Music builds skills that last a lifetime.
Music belongs to everyone.
The Northrop Fund helps ensure that exceptional instruction, inspiring teachers, and a welcoming musical community are within reach for every student who wants to learn.
“The Music School of Delaware has become a cherished musical community for our family. They provide high-quality instruction and numerous performance opportunities.”
– The Hoffman Family
“Setting aside time for lessons helped us build stronger relationships. It’s become a meaningful part of our week.”
– The Hwang Family
Music is a developmental accelerator.
Your child gets all of this — plus a community that cheers them on.
Brain Growth
Strengthens memory, attention, and problem-solving — skills that show up in school and beyond.
Emotional Growth
Builds confidence, resilience, and healthy self-expression at every age.
Social Skills
Teamwork, listening, and collaboration — through ensembles and performances.
Academic Benefits
Students in music programs often outperform peers academically.
Whether shy, energetic, curious, or already passionate…
…they’ll find a place here.
Private Lessons
All offerings available but guitar-related instruments.
Beginner Pathways
Designed for kids with zero experience — start from day one.
Performance Opportunities
Recitals and community performances statewide.
Youth Ensembles
Orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups — playing together, growing together.
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Give your child a year of music…
…at no cost to you.
Fill out the form to check eligibility and schedule a sample lesson. Once submitted, our friendly staff will call you to match your child with the right teacher, instrument, and schedule.
Please note: All funds for the Northrop Endowed Fund for Music Education have been used for the 2026-2027 school year. Applications will open in the spring for Summer 2027!
