The GRIT Program
Bringing the power of music to kids in our community’s underserved schools.
GRIT:Growth, Resilience, Instinct, Tenacity
The GRIT Program is a full-scholarship program of the Peterson School of Music that delivers daily, high-quality music instruction—at no cost—to nearly 500 students at three Title I partner schools. In collaboration with the Salt Lake City School District and the Utah State Board of Education, GRIT helps close the opportunity gap by providing life-changing access to music education for at-risk youth. Students show measurable academic and personal growth, proving that consistent musical training can transform lives and communities. This vital work is made possible through generous support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and public funding. Join us in expanding access to music education by donating here or contacting giving@petersonschoolofmusic.org
A culture of success:
The GRIT Program’s objective is to bring the beauty, power, and joy of quality music lessons to underserved students. Ultimately, our goal is 100% college acceptance for those who complete the entire program K-12. In its 9th year, the program is already showing statistically demonstrable results in lessened absenteeism, improved academic proficiency, and decreased behavioral problems among participants.
Our GRIT educators
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Abby Dreher
Viola instructor and GRIT Manager, Abby Dreher, holds a Master’s in Viola Performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Abby has performed at festivals like Aspen and Banff and is dedicated to teaching and expanding access to music education through our school’s outreach programs.
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Yelena Bates
Ms. Bates is a highly experienced music educator in piano and choir. She has taught and/or coached thousands of students in the U.S. and Russia. Her past piano students have been recognized at many local competitions, and also featured with the Utah Symphony on their annual Salute to Youth Concerts. Currently, she is a system singing instructor at the American Preparatory Academy and a piano faculty at the Peterson School of Music.
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Rachel H. Taft
GRIT program director at the Mountain View Elementary school and violin instructor here at Peterson School of Music, Ms. Taft holds a degree of music from the New England Conservatory.
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Andres Reyes
A versatile and accomplished jazz guitarist, Andres Reyes has a deep passion for all genres of music. With a background in jazz, funk, indie-folk, and more, Andres brings his vast performance experience and creativity to his teaching. He has co-founded a nonprofit, Boom Bap Bam, to spread jazz music and culture in Utah and has taught students of all ages for over a decade. Andres’s goal-oriented and flexible approach allows each student to achieve their musical ambitions, emphasizing ear training and a personalized path to mastery. Currently an adjunct professor at Salt Lake Community College, he continues to perform and inspire musicians throughout Utah.
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Wachira Waigwa-Stone
Wachira Waigwa-Stone is an accompanist, performer, composer, session player, and teacher. He holds a master’s degree in percussion performance from the University of Utah. He has toured the country and had his music performed internationally. In addition to serving on the faculty for Gifted Music School, he also works as the Music Program Manager for Tanner Dance and as an accompanist for the School of Dance at the University of Utah.
GRIT Program Partners
Reach out
Questions about our lessons and programs? We’re here to help. Send us a note at info@petersonschoolofmusic.org, or give us a call at 385.222.7787.