Our Mission
Ardsley Music Partners (AMP) is a 501 (c) (3) parent run organization whose mission is to encourage, promote and support the music department within the Ardsley School District in all our instrumental and vocal programs across all three schools. Research suggests that music education greatly contributes to the development of well rounded students.
What We Do
The goal of AMP is to encourage participation in music as well as increase the prominence of the Ardsley music program. We do this in a variety of ways including working closely with our music teachers and district administrators. Our outreach to the community also helps raise awareness of the programs. In addition, it is our hope that our fundraising efforts will enhance and enrich current programs.
Our Story
The idea for AMP grew out of a conversation between the co-founders in 2019 after noticing the differential levels of parent involvement in the music programs compared to other district programing. With our own children so heavily involved in the music programs, we felt we could make a positive impact on our district with the creation of a music booster club. After a covid pause, we returned to the idea in 2021 and brought in Heeral Mehta to round out our e-board. We incorporated in October of 2022 and received our non-profit status in January of 2023.
Meet the Team!
Erica Finegan
Erica Finegan is a former middle school ELA teacher and the mom of 2 children who have been playing in Ardsley ensembles from CRS through AHS. Ryan graduated AHS in 2023 and is studying Jazz Saxophone Performance at Eastman School of Music. Evan is a sophomore who plays saxophone in the Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble at AHS.
Kevin O’Donovan
Kevin O’Donovan is a college Neuroscience professor and father of 2. Niamh is a junior at AHS and is a violinist active with Chamber Orchestra, while Sean is a 7th grader at AMS who plays piano and trumpet with Band, Jazz Band and Outcast. Kevin can’t play any instruments but still loves music!
Rebecca Berry
Rebecca Berry is a college Psychology professor and mother of 2. Both kids have played in the Ardsley music program beginning in third grade. Colin plays the trombone and Meghan plays the French horn and transitioned to playing the trumpet as well in 6th grade.
Heeral Mehta
Heeral Mehta is an Education Consultant and mother of 2. Anshuman is a junior at AHS and plays tenor saxophone and participates in the Wind Ensemble. Viraaj is in 7th grade and plays the cello. He is an active participant in the Chamber Orchestra at the Middle School.
Mike Owen
Mike Owen is a Finance professional and Dad of 2 kids in the Ardsley School District - Amelie is in 6th grade and is a keen Cellist, and Liv is in 2nd Grade and is already studying singing. Mike is a music fanatic and has played bass and guitar in many bands in both the US and the UK.