The mission of the “Musicians Make Better Students” (MMBS) program is to give children in schools without music programs within our community the opportunity to play music in a structured after-school environment. The program is targeted to three K through 8th grade schools located in the North Portland Roosevelt High School cluster. The K-5th grade schools are Rosa Parks and James John Elementary, while Clarendon at Portsmouth houses the K-8th grade program. Each is a school that has no current music program and has primarily minority populations below the area median income that comprises its student body

On November 7, 2009 at 7:00PM the 88 Keys Foundation will be hosting a formal benefit concert for the “Musicians Make Better Students” music program. The event will be held at Jefferson High School located at 5210 N. Kerby in Portland, Oregon. Tickets $10 in advance and $12 at the door.

Performers will include: Afincando, Darrell Grant, E.D. Mondainé & Belief, the Metropolitan Youth Symphony (Mysfits) under the direction of Lajos Balogh and guest student performers.  A silent auction, door prizes and much, much more will complement a wonderful evening of music.