MICHAEL ALLEN HARRISON

"Why I Started The Snowman Foundation"

WHAT WE DO

Our Work

PLAY IT FORWARD...Join our vision to give all children access to music through inspiration, instruments and instruction.
What began as the vision of Northwest composer and pianist Michael Allen Harrison has evolved into a community effort that shares the joy, the healing, the learning, and the life-changing gifts music has to offer. The Snowman Foundation was formed 1999 to fill the gap in music left by a lack of funds in schools. The foundation’s primary source of funding comes from our annual Ten Grands concert and since 2000, we have raised nearly three million dollars! There’s nothing more ubiquitous than music. There’s nothing quite as powerful as music. It can alter our mood. It can change a life; it can even unite and transform an entire generation. But have you ever stopped to think about where musicians come from? Are they magically born with an instrument in their hands? Are they savants who can pick up a score and hear the music? Ask one. They’ll likely tell a different story, one that involves a gift of an instrument at an early age; patient encouragement and tutelage from someone who already knew how to play; lots of hard work striving to be better. Yes, people who make music have a talent, but like any artist, their talent needs a patron in order to grow, develop and thrive. At The Snowman Foundation, we understand the importance of music and we’re committed to providing the instruments, instructors and inspiration young people need to develop. The Snowman Foundation's Play It Forward program provides access to music for all kids!

CONTACT PLAY IT FORWARD

Get in touch with Play It Forward to learn more about our work and find out how to donate.

We appreciate your support!

Play It Forward Director - Marietta Harrison -

marietta@pifmusic.org

503-746-1080​