Cords for Music is a socially conscious fashion brand. The music-themed finery benefits music education in public schools and underserved communities. The brand has partnered with Education through Music, a New York based non-profit that works with inner-city schools to provide music as a core subject.
Check out our interview with Cords for Music founder, Nicholas Coblence.
upfrontNY: What was the inspiration behind Cords for Music?
Nicholas Coblence: A few years ago I was thinking about what kind of business I wanted to start and I knew that I wanted it to mean something to me and give back to my community. It was very important that whatever I did it have a component devoted to helping others. Since I have a background in Arts Administration and luxury marketing as well as being a musician, I decided to marry my three passions and experiences into Cords for Music.
upfrontNY: Has there been an artist, band, or album that has inspired your passion for music?
Nicholas Coblence: It’s hard to choose just one. Early on, my inspirations came from Pink Floyd (Dark Side and Echoes), Peter Gabriel (Secret World Live album) and Guns n’ Roses. I was also very heavy into the Seattle scene as a teenager and would listen to Pearl Jam Ten everyday on the way to school. I was obsessed.
That said, I grew up around classical music as well and Beethoven has always the composer that spoke to me the most. Missa Solemnis is one of my favorite compositions of his.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your partnership with Education Through Music?
Nicholas Coblence: We keep it simple. For every sale we make we donate to ETM to help support their mission of bringing music classes to public schools all over the city. They impact over 27,000 students every year so we are very proud of this partnership.
upfrontNY: What has been the best part of bringing inspiration and music to children in these schools through this partnership?
Nicholas Coblence: The result and knowing that we were able to play a small part in making their life just that much better. As I said, I started this company because I wanted to make sure that everything I did was able to make an impact. It feels good to know that I’m succeeding at that.
upfrontNY: How can others support Cords for Music?
Nicholas Coblence:
1) Shop! www.cordsformusic.com
2) Tell everyone they know and share us on social (@cordsformusic). We are a business so of course our priority is to make money and support the cause but just as important is building a strong community of music education advocates and a powerful voice for change.
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