Building Bridges has brought music and social education to nearly 21,500 school children from 40 elementary schools right here in the East Valley. Loved by teachers, parents and children alike, this K-6 annual event features the dynamic music of three-time Grammy Award winner Tom Chapin.

It is an educational program aligned with the Arizona Academic Standards in the Arts and is integrated by teachers into their existing curriculum plans. The Building Bridges program teaches life lessons about diversity, anti-bullying, healthy choices, anti-violence, respect, and environmental responsibility through music and songs.  Featuring  Tom Chapin’s award winning songs, program favorites include, ‘Our Town is a Salad Bowl,’ ‘Family Tree,’ and no live concert would be complete without, ‘Together Tomorrow.’

In the Building Bridges program, children are actively engaged in learning the award winning music and songs prior to the event, actively participate during the event and then complete the experience through reflection and review after the event.

Historically, the live concert performance has been presented at the Higley Center for Performing Arts, a beautiful state of the art facility located in Gilbert. Approximately 1,200 children attend each performance and sing-a-long with Tom.  It is a brilliant, all round educational experience for the children.

The Building Bridges program is presented FREE OF CHARGE to the children and participating schools.

Through sponsorships and donations gathered by Building Bridges Ambassadors on behalf of the Foundation for Arts, Culture and Education of the East Valley, teachers are provided with study guides and the accompanying music and songs. Transportation to and from the concert is arranged by the School District, Charter or other participating schools and the costs are reimbursed.

It is a popular, inclusive program and seats are filled on a first come, first served basis.