RAA Selected As 2026 Summer Now! - El Sistema Grant Recipient

The Riverside Arts Academy (RAA) has been selected as one of just sixteen organizations nationwide to receive a Summer Now! grant from El Sistema USA (ESUSA), recognizing the Academy's commitment to expanding access to high-quality music education and meaningful summer learning opportunities for young musicians.

Supported by the Peter Compo and Carol Larson Gift Fund, the Summer Now! initiative provides funding to El Sistema USA member organizations to strengthen existing summer programs while helping launch new opportunities that increase access to music education for students and families across the country.

Organizations were selected through a competitive application process that evaluated program design, community impact, and alignment with El Sistema USA's mission of advancing equity and access through music education.

"This recognition is an investment in our students, families, and community," said Adam Karelin-Anderson, Executive & Artistic Director of Riverside Arts Academy. "Summer is a critical time for young musicians to continue growing both artistically and personally. This support allows us to create meaningful musical experiences that inspire creativity, build confidence, and ensure more students have access to the transformative power of music."

El Sistema USA Executive Director Liz Moulthrop shared that this year's applicant pool showcased the outstanding work happening throughout the national network, highlighting organizations that are expanding summer opportunities through strong community partnerships, responsiveness to student and family needs, and a commitment to artistic excellence.

As a Summer Now! grant recipient, Riverside Arts Academy will continue building on its mission to provide high-quality music education for all young people, creating engaging summer experiences that foster musical growth, collaboration, and a lifelong love of the arts.

Riverside Arts Academy is honored to join fellow El Sistema USA organizations from across the nation in advancing accessible, community-centered music education and looks forward to the opportunities this investment will create for students throughout the Inland Empire.