Despite widespread threats to music programs, especially in underfunded schools statewide, the Reading Musical Foundation (RMF) has been a cornerstone of Berks County’s distinctive musical landscape. Since its inception in 1926, RMF has devised a sound legacy in advocating for and advancing opportunities for students, educators and the broader community that transcends generations.
Transforming Lives Through Access
RMF began as a re-granting organization, distributing funds to support local music organizations. Over time, the foundation’s mission evolved to hone in on students’ emerging needs.
“When I first joined, we were funding merit scholarships primarily for high school seniors majoring in music,” says RMF President Keri Shultz, who has served the organization in many capacities since she started there right out of college in 2003. “But we realized there were many kids who wanted to play music but lacked financial access to lessons or instruments. That realization reshaped our scholarship programs and our mission.”
This pivot led to a dramatic increase in scholarship awards. From distributing $16,000 across 50 awards in the early 2000s, RMF now annually awards 641 scholarships totaling $292,000, with more than 70 percent of these being need-sensitive.
Keeping the Music Playing
In 2012, RMF faced a pivotal challenge: threats to school music programs due to budget constraints. Through tireless advocacy, no Berks County programs were lost — a feat unmatched by neighboring counties. “It was incredible to see that work pay off,” says Shultz, who has dedicated her entire career to bridging gaps in music access. “RMF, with a team of parents and district advocates, kept music alive for 2,500 elementary students in the Reading School District, and the ripple effect continues today as those students graduate and carry the torch.”
Berks County’s music programs remain strong with students consistently excelling at regional and state competitions. RMF’s unwavering belief that music is more than an art form, paired with the dedication of the many local organizations who have kept music and music education in the community, plays a vital role in that strength.
“We wanted to make sure that those opportunities stayed available to students not just because we’re looking to grow the next batch of professional musicians but because we’re looking to grow the next batch of leaders,” says Shultz. “When we talk about teamwork, discipline and listening and all of these skills that are crucial to succeeding in music, they are also crucial to succeeding in most other industries and life in general.”
A Vision for the Future
As RMF approaches its centennial in 2027, it is embracing new frontiers of access. The organization is looking at partnering with Albright College’s Music Industry Studies program to share knowledge about digital music with local music teachers who are aiming to develop curricula that include the subject.
In addition, RMF wants to challenge Berks County’s music therapy desert and expand access to the service in the community. The organization signed on to a statewide movement for music therapists to be licensed instead of certified.
“It’s still about access and quality; the medium is just changing,” says Shultz. “Everything we do — whether it’s scholarships, advocacy or programming — is about planting seeds of opportunity. The music we help create today resonates for generations.”
Fun Facts
Operation Replay. Donate your unused instruments to RMF to give them a new life. RMF refurbishes instruments and places them in the hands of a student with a need and a passion.
Impact in Action. Visit the readingmusicalfoundation.org or follow RMF on socials to get more information about experiencing the talent of local students through the May Recital Series, Noon Tunes Concerts and more.
