Ken Trush (Daniel's Music Foundation)
Overview
Ken Trush is a prominent figure in the field of music education and social empowerment for individuals with disabilities. He is best known as the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Daniel's Music Foundation (DMF), an organization that he helped establish alongside his family following his son Daniel's battle with a debilitating brain aneurysm. Ken's dedication to fostering an inclusive music environment has led to the success of DMF in providing free music instruction to thousands of individuals with disabilities. Through its innovative programs and events, including the Danny Awards and a boutique record label, DMF promotes inclusivity in the music industry while challenging societal perceptions of disability.
Recent Developments
In the past couple of years, Ken Trush and Daniel's Music Foundation have made significant strides in expanding their impact and reach:
- Danny Awards (October 19, 2024): DMF continued to celebrate musicians with disabilities through its annual Danny Awards at New York City's Town Hall. This event provides a platform for showcasing the talents of musicians with disabilities worldwide (Forbes).
- Online Expansion: The foundation, which started with in-person classes, has greatly expanded its online offerings to include 1,100 free online classes. During the pandemic, DMF reached musicians in 35 states and multiple international cities. This expansion has allowed DMF to cultivate a global music community (CanvasRebel Magazine).
- "Hello Inclusion" Festival: DMF continued its collaboration with Bethel Woods, organizing the "Hello Inclusion" music festival to celebrate Disability Pride Month. The 2024 festival featured performances from DMF artists alongside renowned musicians, aiming to foster community and promote inclusion (Forbes).
- Record Label Launch: DMF launched a record label, "Just Call Me By My Name," which focuses on producing and promoting uplifting music by artists with disabilities. This label is part of DMF's broader effort to challenge industry norms and create more opportunities for musicians with disabilities (Bold Journey Magazine).
- Program Growth: The organization now operates from an 8,700 square foot music center in Manhattan, highlighting its growth from a small rented space to a leading institution in music education for individuals with disabilities (Daniel's Music Foundation Shop).
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ken Trush |
| Occupation | Co-Founder & Managing Director of Daniel's Music Foundation |
| Known For | Daniel's Music Foundation, Advocacy for Music Education and Inclusivity |
Early Life and Education
Ken Trush's personal and professional journey has been deeply influenced by his family's experiences. Before venturing into the nonprofit sector with Daniel's Music Foundation, Ken held significant positions in the corporate world, including roles as a CFO, EVP of Corporate Development, and partner at various firms. His business acumen has been pivotal in developing DMF's strategic direction and operations. Ken's commitment to his family and community is evident in his transition from the corporate sector to establishing a foundation that makes a positive impact on countless lives through music.
Career and Notable Achievements
Ken Trush's career is marked by diverse experiences:
- Corporate Success: Before DMF, Ken had over four decades in corporate finance and development. He was a partner at an M&A firm and served as a CFO and EVP of Corporate Development at Agency.com.
- Founding Daniel's Music Foundation: In 2006, Ken co-founded DMF with his family to provide free music programs for individuals with disabilities, driven by personal experiences with his son Daniel's recovery.
- Awards and Recognition: Under Ken's leadership, DMF has hosted numerous events, including the Danny Awards, becoming a beacon of inclusivity in music.
- Advocacy and Expansion: Ken has significantly expanded DMF's reach, emphasizing the power of music as a universal language and a tool for social integration.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Ken Trush is actively involved in managing and expanding Daniel's Music Foundation. His work focuses on enhancing accessibility to music for individuals with disabilities and fostering an inclusive community. DMF's programs are designed to break down barriers and offer meaningful music education opportunities. The foundation's efforts have inspired many and demonstrated the potential of music in transformative social change.
Conclusion
Ken Trush's dedication to music education and advocacy for individuals with disabilities continues to make a significant impact. Through Daniel's Music Foundation, Ken and his family have created a legacy of empowerment and inclusivity that challenges societal norms and encourages acceptance. As DMF grows and evolves, it remains a testament to the Trush family's vision of music as a right accessible to all, providing a lasting influence on the lives of many.