Mountain View based Music For Minors is in the midst of a major expansion, thanks to a new partnership with the San Mateo-Foster City School District.

The organization aims to maintain musical education by offering affordable and comprehensive music programs to Mountain View and neighboring areas.

With the new partnership, Music For Minors' number of students will increase by over 15,000. In the past three years, the program service has grown above 130 percent the biggest growth spurt came with the new partnership.

"We are thrilled with this opportunity to reach more kids, " said Sanja Palmer, the organization's executive director, in a press release. "Music is a vital part a well-rounded education that should be available to every young student."

In addition, the nonprofit organization offers education programs to students in the San Carlos and the Redwood City school districts.

Fifteen more schools, from San Jose to Pacifica, participate with Music For Minors. The organization has also worked with San Mateo and Santa Clara counties in order to provide a well-rounded education.

According to Music For Minors, musical education has been shown to enhance academic growth and helps with problem solving and teamwork, as well as improve a student's success in math, science and reading.

The programs offer hands-on experience in singing, theory and appreciation, movement and dance, use of rhythm instruments and musical games.

Music For Minors teachers are composed of professional educators and volunteers.

Outside of the classroom, the organization offers interactive assemblies and special programs separate from school, such as choral groups and recorder lessons. It is also collaborates with the Ives Quartet and West Bay Opera.

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