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A citywide network of music and mutual support
Where Music Becomes Infrastructure for Change
We work alongside youth and community partners to build lasting music spaces, leadership pipelines, and pathways to opportunity.
Welcome to Beyond the Bars
Systemic Problems Require Systemic Solutions
“Beyond the Bars is where I can feel myself and express myself the way I want to.”
Student 16
Standing With Philadelphia’s Youth, Backed by Community Partners
Our music labs are powered by local schools, community centers, foundations, and festivals that believe young people deserve safe, creative spaces to grow.
Our Ecosystem of
Support Model
Music programs embedded in shelters, trauma clinics, and partner sites to meet young people where they are and connect them to ongoing programs and community hubs.
Pop-up music labs that bring instruments, technology, and teaching artists directly into neighborhoods, events, and partner locations across Philadelphia.
Dedicated staff who support young people through key transitions by connecting them to resources, opportunities, and trusted community partners.
Ongoing, accessible music programs where young people grow as artists through instruments, production, and songwriting, and share their work through performances.
A paid leadership pathway where experienced students develop as educators and mentors while teaching and supporting younger youth across programs.
Citywide, youth-led showcases and open mics that make stages accessible, bring organizations together, and celebrate young artists across Philadelphia.
About Beyond the Bars
Music as a Gateway to Healing and Leadership
- We operate 55+ music labs across schools, shelters, community hubs, and trauma-focused sites.
- Our student teachers and alumni now support hundreds of younger students through leadership and employment.
Our Programs
From First Chord to Full Production
Throughout all of our programming we focus on helping our students realize their talent and grow their self efficacy. Beyond the Bars currently offers over 8 different programs throughout the city using two main models: Our Student Driven Music Academy and our Practical Producers Program. These programs are performed throughout North, West and Northeast Philadelphia and works to serve students of various backgrounds.
Practical Producers Program
Students learn audio engineering, beat-making, and music production alongside professional producers. Through hands-on studio work, they build technical skills, create original music, and explore creative career pathways.
Student Driven Music Academy
Youth learn instruments, form bands, write original music, and perform at community events across Philadelphia. The academy builds confidence, collaboration, and leadership through student-driven creativity.
Mobile Studio/Lending Library
The Mobile Studio meets youth where they are, offering hands-on music and recording experiences at schools, events, and workshops.
It opens pathways into ongoing programs and access to creative tools.
Student Teacher Program
Our Student Teacher Program trains young artists to become teaching musicians
and mentors. Students grow as leaders while expanding
access to music for the next
generation across the city.
Beyond the Bars creates safe, supportive spaces where young people can explore music, heal from trauma, and grow into confident leaders. Our programs are built alongside students and community partners to ensure they are responsive, empowering, and rooted in real needs.
Why Choose Us
Why Families and Partners Trust Our Work
Community-Based Labs
Trauma-Informed Approach
Student-Driven Spaces
Real Career Pathways
Donate to Fuel the Music
Building Together
Our 2024-25 Impact Report
Holding Down the Groove, Building the Foundation
Students will explore:
- Basic bass technique and groove
- Playing with bands and ensembles
- Rhythm, timing, and musical structure
- Supporting songs through collaboration
Rhythm, Focus, and Teamwork
Students will explore:
- Groove, coordination, and basic technique
- Playing with bands and other musicians
- Listening and responding through rhythm
- Expressing energy and emotion through music
Learning, Writing, and Playing Together
Students will explore:
- Chords, rhythm, and melody
- Songwriting and creative expression
- Playing with other students
- Performing in community settings
Performing, Leading, and Representing the Program
Students will explore:
- Rehearsing and performing as a group
- Playing original and collaborative music
- Leadership, responsibility, and teamwork
- Representing the program in the community
Why Our Students Thrive
What our young people and our community have built
Students move from learners to mentors and paid teaching artists, shaping the culture of each lab.
Music labs provide consistent, welcoming spaces where young people can show up as themselves, be heard, and build trust with peers and mentors.
From songwriting and performance to production and collaboration, students develop creative, technical, and professional skills they can carry into school, work, and future opportunities.
Students are connected to an ecosystem of support that includes mentors, community partners, and resources — continuing long after a single class or program ends.
