Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Creative Arts Education for All Ages in Philadelphia
Settlement Music School has been a cornerstone of arts education since 1908, dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality music, dance, and creative arts therapy programs for all ages and skill levels. Our six branches across the Greater Philadelphia region serve over 13 states, offering tailored instruction through 200+ professional faculty members who bring decades of industry experience to the classroom. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools (ACCPAS) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), we combine rigorous curricula with financial aid for over 60% of students, ensuring inclusivity.Our award-winning Kaleidoscope Preschool and arts-integrated programs have been proven through university research to enhance early childhood development, while our community partnerships and virtual offerings expand access to underserved populations. With a legacy of nurturing Pulitzer Prize winners and professional musicians, we remain committed to fostering creativity, technical skill, and lifelong artistic engagement.
Services
Music Lessons
Dance Classes
Arts Therapy
Preschool Programs
After-School Care
Summer Programs
Faculty Training
Community Partnerships
Virtual Instruction
Performance Ensembles
Details
- Year established: 1908
Highlights and features
- Established in 1908 with a century of arts education expertise
- 200+ professional faculty with industry experience
- Financial aid available for over 60% of students
- Award-winning Kaleidoscope Preschool with proven outcomes
- Six branches serving Greater Philadelphia and 13 states
Associations and certifications
- ACCPAS
- NAEYC
What people say
Lifelong skills developed
Supportive community environment
Expert faculty instruction
Proven educational outcomes
Accessible financial aid
Services
Music Lessons
Individualized music instruction for over 20 instruments caters to all skill levels from beginners to advanced students. Our faculty includes professional musicians who customize lessons to develop technical proficiency, musicality, and performance confidence. Students gain access to recitals, ensembles, and masterclasses that enhance their learning experience.
Creative Arts Therapy
Board-certified therapists use music, dance/movement, and art therapy to address emotional, physical, and social goals for individuals of all ages. Programs are available at six branches and partner sites, focusing on developmental needs, mental health, and life transitions through evidence-based therapeutic practices.
Dance Programs
Comprehensive dance curriculum includes ballet, modern, jazz, and creative movement for ages 3-18. Classes emphasize proper technique, physical development, and artistic expression, with performance opportunities in annual productions. Faculty members bring professional performance and teaching experience to each lesson.
Kaleidoscope Preschool
NAEYC-accredited preschool program integrates music, visual arts, and dance into early childhood education for ages 3-5. Research-proven curriculum enhances literacy, math skills, and social-emotional development through arts-based learning. Includes nutrition program and partnership with Philadelphia School District.
Community Partnerships
Collaborative programs with schools, community centers, and cultural organizations expand access to arts education. Initiatives include in-school residencies, teacher training, and performances that serve over 13 states. Partnerships focus on equitable access for underserved populations through tailored in-person and virtual programming.
People
Quiara Alegra Hudes
Alumna
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright who credits Settlement with developing her artistic foundation, mentorship skills, and community engagement through music education.
Laura Cerulli
Program Director
Zausmer Program Director of Kardon Center for Arts Therapy with expertise in integrating music, dance, and art into therapeutic goals for clients of all ages.
Tarrell Davis
Executive Director
Early Childhood Program Director overseeing Kaleidoscope Preschool and After-School Care programs, with a focus on arts-integrated education and community outreach.
Ilya Ovrutsky
Faculty
Professional flutist and educator with decades of experience teaching at Settlement's Mary Louise Curtis Branch, mentoring students from beginners to conservatory applicants.
Kaye N. Fernandez
Faculty
Dance instructor specializing in early childhood movement education, combining creative dance techniques with developmental learning principles for young students.
Questions
What age groups does Settlement serve?
We offer programs for infants as young as 6 months through senior citizens, with specialized curricula for early childhood, youth, adults, and therapeutic clients.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, we award over $3 million in financial aid annually, with 60% of students receiving assistance through scholarships, subsidies, and gift packages.
Do you offer online classes?
Settlement Music Online provides virtual lessons, classes, and performance opportunities accessible from any location with internet connectivity.
What instruments are taught?
We offer instruction in over 20 instruments including piano, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, guitar, and voice, with specialized programs for each.
How are faculty members qualified?
Our 200+ instructors are professional musicians and artists with degrees and performance experience, maintaining active careers while teaching at Settlement.
What therapy services are available?
Board-certified music, dance/movement, and art therapists provide individualized treatment for developmental, emotional, and physical needs at five branch locations.
Videos
Reviews (4)
JustHappi Ness
Jun 21, 2021
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Critical: Communication, Professionalism, Value I've been trying to get my son in these classes since May. They say u have to make appointments and will call you. They never call its. June 21st
Belinda Chambers
May 28, 2021
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Always magic. First time in the building since covid19 and everything was clean, everyone wearing a mask
Abba Asal
Mar 10, 2019
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I don't know about were you live, but I live a houre away from the school and I went there hoping I could get my daughter in piano class and they weren't of much help. They ask for to much money per houre. They make it harder for the kid to learn piano. For now I think the teachers are good. It's just the people in charge of the schedule. They only give a one hour per lesson. I didn't sign my daughter up in the end. I hope to find another place and when I do I'll definitely share it with you guys. Hope you found this helpful and have a good day. ( )
Scott Reynolds
Nov 28, 2016
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Music lessons for young and old. Children's choir is outstanding. Excellent faculty. Registration could be a bit more streamlined but in all a wonderful place.
