Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project
FAST FACTS
School Name: Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project
Teaching Artists: Brittany Stone, Manuela Restrepo, Christopher Sierra, Bridgette Gann, Rahul Jhunjhunwala, Sravan Suresh, Briana Stone, Andrew Stevens Purdy, Zack Kester, Ben Houghton
Location: Tamil-Nadu, India
Programs: Choir, General Music (PreK-5), Private Lessons in Piano, Voice, Guitar, and Violin
Participants: 317
Duration: 32 hrs/week, year-long
Partnered with BAE since: 2016
TESTIMONIALS
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I am Elsa. I'm 17 and have had the honor of working with BAE for 7 years. In seventh grade, I started as a timid choir member afraid to let her voice be heard. I was shy, and didn't know how to act in this new community with intention and motivation. I avoided auditions, and didn't do solos. However, with help from my teachers at BAE, who are now more like my family, I became more outgoing and learnt to step outside my comfort zone. Their enthusiasm in helping me grow through the arts made me more willing to learn new things. I started taking individual voice lessons, tried to learn how to play the ukulele and piano, although I soon realized that I just preferred singing more, and was able to bond with people all around the world over our shared love for music. I've been able to explore various interests of mine, like singing, poetry, story-writing and public speaking, because of BAE. Now, as one of the graduates in my school helping the new members of the Concert Choir enhance their musical skills and knowledge, I have been given the opportunity to nourish my leadership skills, too.
As a girl who comes from a family in which academics is really all that matters and standard education is the only one affordable, I would have never known what I was truly capable of, outside that path, without BAE. Over the years, I have discovered so many things about myself, and have intentionally adopted and become a culmination of the traits I admire in my BAE teachers. Today, I am a confident, young woman who speaks and sings with conviction. BAE has given me a home in music and a family in their love. I truly want my juniors to experience thatmagic, because at the end of the day, it's not about the melody or lyrics or Ms. Brittany's instructions written on a whiteboard in purple permanent-marker ink. It's about the people we get to be because of the knowledge that there is a community out there that will foster our growth and nurture our minds. It's about the talents we never knew we had until they showed us that wedid. BAE has helped me grow beyond the barriers I set for myself, and I want that for the next generations to come. Today, I am not afraid to live in the orange because of BAE, and hopefully, the younger members of my chosen family will, too.
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I am Arasu: an 18-year-old recent graduate from Shanti Bhavan. I have been part of BAE for five years since eighth grade. The first time I attended class with BAE(Ms Brittany), I was shy. I was shy about talking to Ms. Brittany. I was shy about being one of the youngest members of the Choir. And I was extremely shy of my high-pitched voice. I attended choir with hesitation at first, but it soon became an addiction. The choir space was immensely comfortable and allowed me to be vulnerable. From being satisfied with my voice being small in the Choir, I went on to perform solos. I was no longer afraid to stand among the women during our choir performances as an alto- I was proud of it.
Student life can be challenging and filled with highs and lows. I was able to find relief through music and singing. During our exams, we are generally asked to focus on academics instead of music. I didn’t listen. Music plays a major role in helping me attain my academic goals. BAE has helped me grow in unimaginable ways, and I am very grateful. Many kids here at school will experience the things I have as a student. It is very important that the program continues for future students so that they can discover their talents and navigate challenges. And most importantly, the program would help students find a family within the SB family- the music(BAE) family, where they can be themselves.
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The quality that BAE embodies that I hope to carry with me into adulthood is the boldness to change the world through music and words—always exploring outside of my comfort zone to discover myself and my interests.
I started music at a very young age, joining the senior choir. I was terrified of being the youngest member. Then Ms. Brittany came along, building my confidence, and I did a solo. I was the proudest then.
Dr. Chris had the biggest impact on me; he inspired me to be strong by sharing his story about his life struggles. He taught me that being emotional is not a weakness but a beauty. BAE has given me the happiness that I once would only dream of, and I have left with values that will stick with me forever.
I think that access to arts education is important for all youth because it serves as a safe platform to release all emotions.
Music is an art that everyone should have access to since it gives happiness that nothing else can give. Having music allowed me to think creatively, explore new ideas, and express myself uniquely.
For me it has reduced stress and given me comfort during my academic journey. Studying music has impacted my life so much. It has built me up to be the young woman I am today.
In grade 8, I became choir leader. It was a ride, but I feel proud and accomplished. During the journey, I became confident that I could try anything outside of my comfort zone. I am grateful to have a great team like BAE to support me in growing and to nurture me. It gave me a sense of belonging and love in the community. This way, I was able to share my joy with many people.
In 9th grade, I was still navigating my role as a choir leader,
so I would tell myself that it will be worth fighting for.BAE will help shape my goals and future with the strong values that will be learned in the years to come.
Stay strong and help others to do the same, for music is in the air bringing joy.
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Music means so much to me because it gives me the energy to start my day with a positive mind, become more confident and helps me in encouraging myself to become better.
One of the most exciting moments I’ve had in music was performing the song “Million to One” to everyone, singing with my music teacher Miss Manu during choir and the program we performed during the 2 weeks break.
Moments like this make me feel confident, happy, excited and inspired.
I wanted to tell you how grateful I am for your support. Your kindness helps me in continuing learning new songs, acquire skills I never thought possible, try over and over even though I fail and to not give up!
Thank you for believing in me and my love for music. You’re part of my story, and I can’t wait to keep growing because of you.
With love,
Bhargavi -
My name is Eshwari Shnamugam. I’m 17 years old and currently on a gap year, preparing for the SAT with hopes of gaining admission to a university overseas.While academics has always been a focus, music has played an equally important role in shaping who I am today.
I have been part of the BAE music program for four years, and it has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I joined choir in 10th grade at a time when I was under a lot of academic and emotional pressure.I was seeking something meaningful to balance the stress- and choir became exactly that. It became my release and my greatest source of joy.
Being part of the choir helped me in ways I never imagined possible. Singing in harmony with others not only gave me confidence but also pushed me beyond my comfort zone. I discovered a new side of myself-more expressive,open and connected. Through music, I found a voice I didn’t know I had.
The choir quickly became more than just a group; it became a family. My choir family constantly encouraged and uplifted me, always motivating me to be the best version of myself regardless of the challenges I faced. Whether it was early morning rehearsals or evening jam sessions, every moment spent with them brought me immense happiness. Starting and ending the day with music was a true blessing; a gift we never took for granted
The privilege of being part of BAE and having access to such a nurturing musical environment is something I will always cherish. Music, in this space, wasn’t just about performance-it was about expression, healing, and community. I know that the same joy and growth I experienced will be passed on to my juniors as well. The next generation of students at Shanti Bhavan will continue to benefit from choir, using music to spread love, unity, and positivity throughout the campus
In reflection, BAE has given me more than musical training: it has given me memories, friendship, life lessons and a deeper connection to myself.
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My name is Anwesh and I am 18 years old. I was a member of the Shanti Bhavan Choir for 2 years.
Those 2 years were one of the best years of my life and I regret not joining earlier. For me, joining the choir was something new-something out of my comfort zone. What was really nice was how thoughtful and patient the instructors were to newbies like me. Right from the auditions to practice sessions to performances, they were always there for me-teaching and encouraging.
This experience has taught me a lot. I learnt confidence, punctuality and that practice is the key. I also learnt to work with my choir mates. It has taught me that, with teamwork and practice we can sing powerfully.
I want the program to continue for juniors because it is something that I loved as a kid. I didn’t continue with the program and that was the worst decision. I used to see my friends enjoy and take part in everything in the program. I don’t want my juniors to regret it.
Also, BAE doesn’t just nurture our talent, it teaches us many things apart from music. It emulates a family relationship where we look after each other, care for one another, and learn and make mistakes together. I can say with total confidence that I have become a better person because of BAE. If my juniors experience and are a part of BAE from a young age, they will not become star musicians but also fine people.
FINANCIALS
EMBEDDED IG HIGHLIGHTS
IMPACT REFLECTION
2025 marked Broadway for Arts Education’s 10th year of music programming at the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project in Tamil Nadu, India. Over 300 students, aged 4–18, engaged in hundreds of hours of private and group lessons in piano, guitar, violin, and voice, alongside general music classes and choir rehearsals—delivered both in person and virtually by our dedicated team of teaching artists.
In general music classes, students explored a wide range of instruments—including ukulele, xylophone, guitar, and piano—while also engaging in creative exploration through music and movement. It has been inspiring to witness student growth across all levels, especially within the framework of the music fellowship BAE began a decade ago.
At the start of the year, BAE and Shanti Bhavan leadership reaffirmed the core goals of the music program:
Provide a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment where students can explore their artistic talents, develop their skills, and express themselves creatively
Instill and reinforce life skills such as punctuality, responsibility, and time management to prepare students for success in college and beyond
Promote ownership, accountability, and independence through student-led projects and performances
We were thrilled to welcome back Manuela for another powerful music fellowship, bringing warmth, consistency, and joyful leadership to campus. Alongside her, our brilliant team of Virtual Music Instructors continued to deliver world-class lessons and mentorship to students across all ages and skill levels—ensuring sustained growth and deep artistic engagement throughout the year. These values came into focus throughout a year full of music instruction—from Arts Camp and the 4-day Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025, the Inauguration of Shanti Bhavan’s second school in Chikkahosahalli, to our Art Shares, Piano Workshops and the annual Talent Show. Across each of these events, BAE’s music program played a meaningful role in helping students prepare and perform with confidence, creativity, and care.
We are especially proud to see students modeling our core value: Live in the Orange. This year our Better Tomorrow Scholarship winner was our 5-year choir leader, Supriya. As Supriya shares, “The quality that BAE embodies that I hope to carry with me into adulthood is the boldness to change the world through music and words—always exploring outside of my comfort zone to discover myself and my interests.”
Arasu, a 2025 graduate, reflects on the impact of arts education:
“The various aspects it has touched in my life have molded me differently. I could rely on arts education no matter my circumstance: I feel sad, I play music; I feel happy, I play music; I feel angry, I play music, and I just can’t imagine a life without it. I feel like the arts serve as a universal connection between all of humanity, breaking all barriers—country, culture, language, identity, everything. I know many kids my age do not have access to arts education, and I wish everyone had, but that doesn’t stop all of us youths from loving and listening to [the arts]. Connecting, sharing, and loving through music is what unites us all and helps us envision a better tomorrow, as we are the future people.”
Elsa, another graduating senior, reflects on the lasting impact BAE has made in her life:
“BAE embodies kindness. The teachers genuinely care about our well-being, going out of their way to make us feel good about our journeys. When BAE is on campus, I feel like I can just be a kid again—exploring new things and momentarily forgetting all my stress and that I’m almost graduating from high school.
Most importantly, BAE means opportunity. It provides opportunities that many of us might not have had elsewhere, allowing us to explore our passions and discover talents we never knew we had.
As I move forward in life, I hope to carry with me the qualities they embody: resilience in the face of challenges, the ability to balance discipline with joy, kindness in all interactions, and a commitment to creating opportunities for others. These are the lessons that will guide me into adulthood, shaping me into someone who not only pursues her own passions but also uplifts and inspires those around her.”
Our music program aims to support emotional well-being, nurture confidence, and create a true sense of belonging. Peer mentorship, returning teaching artists, and sustained investment in arts education have helped shape a space where students grow as both artists and leaders.
Brittany Stone, Shanti Bhavan’s Program Manager, reflected:
“I’m deeply proud of the music community we’re cultivating at Shanti Bhavan. We’ve built a space where we can foster a rich culture of music, while ensuring the BAE room remains a safe, inspiring space where kindness is the foundation and students feel empowered to take creative risks, develop their artistry, and grow as individuals.”
As we look back on a decade of partnership, we’re proud of the role our program has played, from big celebrations and in those everyday moments of discovery. We’re excited to keep building on this foundation, supporting both Shanti Bhavan campuses, and helping even more students find their voice and tell their stories.
