Music Drives Us, a nonprofit organization founded in 2006 by Ernie Boch Jr., donated $6,000 worth of musical instruments to the Rochester Opera House and the Rochester Performance and Arts Center on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Celebrating its 20th year, Music Drives Us is dedicated to providing access to music education for children across New England. The organization supports emerging artists and music education programs through grants, instrument donations, and community partnerships.

The event began with welcoming remarks from Lisa Gibson of the Rochester Opera House. Jacyn Tremblay, Program Coordinator for Music Drives Us, spoke about the impact of music education and the importance of the grant donation before a formal presentation of the instruments.

“Music has personally shaped my life,” Tremblay said. “As a singer, I know firsthand the confidence, connection, and sense of purpose that come from stepping onto a stage and finding your voice.”

Tremblay noted that the organization’s mission is to support music programs throughout the region.

“Our mission is simple: to keep music alive and thriving in our schools and communities across New England — and today is that mission in action,” Tremblay said.

The donation will support the Rochester Opera House’s Studio to Stage program, which provides students with opportunities to develop creativity, confidence, and collaboration through music and performance.

“The Studio to Stage program is more than an extracurricular activity; it’s a launchpad where creativity, confidence, and collaboration come to life,” Tremblay said. “Monica and Lisa, thank you for championing this grant and advocating for your students. Your leadership made this possible.”

The instruments were purchased by Music Drives Us through Falcetti Music, a partner in providing instruments for the organization’s educational initiatives.

“We’re also deeply grateful to Tony Falcetti and Falcetti Music, our trusted instrument partner, for sourcing, delivering, and setting up this equipment so it’s ready for students from day one,” Tremblay said.

Tremblay emphasized that the donation represents an investment in students and future performers.

“While the students aren’t here today, this investment is truly for them — for the young performer, the budding songwriter, the shy student who finds confidence under the lights,” Tremblay said. “This isn’t just new gear; it’s new opportunity.”

To learn more about Music Drives Us, visit www.musicdrivesus.org.

Photo (left to right): Monica Sirois, grant writer at Rochester Opera House; Tony Falcetti, owner of Falcetti Music; Jacyn Tremblay, program coordinator for Music Drives Us; Anthony Ejarque, executive director of Rochester Opera House; Jenry Towle, RPAC education director; and Lisa Gibson, Rochester Opera House. Photo Credit: Rebecca Carr