Our Programs

Art for Life’s Sake offers arts and musical training through two programs: M.U.S.I.C. and L.A.D.S. These programs are provided at two sites: on the South Campus of The University of Memphis and at First Congregational Church, 1000 South Cooper in Memphis.

M.U.S.I.C. (Memphis Urban Strings Ignites Creativity). Originally a program in which participants receive individual and group instruction in violin and cello using the Suzuki method, the M.U.S.I.C. program has been expanded to include piano and flute lessons. Instruction in percussion is being considered. Classes are provided on Saturday and after school.

• Empower students to develop musical knowledge and skills

• Enrich students’ personal, social, career and performance experiences

• Enable students to develop an appreciation for all forms of creative expression

L.A.D.S. (Literary and Artistic Development of Students) This program integrates literature and visual arts to provide learning experiences connected to the culture of participants. Using a wide variety of methods and media, students examine works of art by writing about them, creating drawings and paintings, producing crafts, or via other modes of creative expression.

The goals of L.A.D.S. are to enable students to:

• Explore a variety of multicultural literature

• Compare ethnic and cultural concepts in various art forms

• Create visual art based on literature

• Maintain journals of their writings and art work

• Develop written critiques of their art work as well as those of peers and professionals

• Dramatize literature and participate in theatre activities based on stories created by individual participants or the group