Music Empowers Foundation and Partner, American Idol-Winner Kris Allen, Announce Grant to Artist Corps New Orleans

NEW YORK, April 12, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Music Empowers Foundation and its celebrity partner, platinum-selling recording artist and American Idol Season 8 winner, Kris Allen, recently announced the awarding of an unrestricted grant to Artist Corps New Orleans.  Artist Corps provides stipends to educators who agree to come to New Orleans and teach music in the city's public or charter schools.

"This generous grant from the Music Empowers Foundation helps to ensure that over 800 New Orleans students – who would not otherwise have music in their schools – will receive ongoing sequential music instruction," said Sonya Robinson, Director, Artist Corps New Orleans upon receiving news of the grant.

Andy Davis, founder of Music Empowers Foundation, said he became aware of Artist Corps in early 2010 and went to New Orleans last October to visit some of the classrooms. "I saw first hand the amazing job being done by the Artist Corps teachers.  They are playing a pivotal role in revitalizing music education in New Orleans and so many children are reaping the benefits," he said.

This is not the first time Music Empowers has assisted Artist Corps.  Over the past year, several classes have received funds to purchase instruments and other materials through the Music Empowers "Double Your Impact" matching grants program via DonorsChoose.org.

About Music Empowers Foundation

Music Empowers Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not for profit that provides financial support to nonprofits that offer innovative education programs in communities with limited or nonexistent programs.  Through funding, their goal is to reach a broad number of children and give them the opportunity to learn, create, play and perform music.

To learn more about Music Empowers Foundation, visit www.musicempowersfoundation.org, become a fan on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @musicempowers.

About Kris Allen

Since winning American Idol in 2009, Kris Allen has become a household name.  After releasing his self-titled debut album in 2009 on 19 Recordings/Jive Records, Kris toured the U.S., opening for Keith Urban, Maroon 5, The Barenaked Ladies and Lifehouse and headlined his own club tour.  His first single, "Live Like We're Dying" has sold over 1.6 million copies to date. Kris is currently writing and recording new material for his next album.  For more information go to www.KrisAllenOfficial.com.

Contact: Andrew Davis
Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Music Empowers Foundation