Paisley Park, Prince’s private estate and recording complex that was converted into a museum following the singer’s 2016 death, is partnering with Minneapolis Public Schools for a new arts program. Launching with the city’s Fine Arts Interdisciplinary Resource (FAIR) School, local students will have access to free tours at Paisley Park (where normal admission is between $46 and $167.50), along with other music education experiences. The initiative will first focus on Minneapolis district schools before expanding outside the metro area.
In a statement about the initiative via local news outlet KARE, Paisley Park tour manager Mitch Maguire noted that “Prince constantly pushed himself to reach new heights and taught others to expect the same from themselves. He was a passionate advocate of music education and its ability to inspire children and adults alike, and we look forward to fulfilling this tenet through our work with MPS.”
Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Ed Graff praised the program in a press release. “It’s fitting that this wonderful opportunity is starting with The FAIR School, which is a magnet high school in Downtown where the arts are integrated in all academic areas,” he said. “I look forward to continued collaboration with Paisley Park and growing our partnership to provide even more MPS students with this experience.”
Paisley Park said it is “thrilled to continue welcoming youth into Prince’s creative environment, inspiring the next generation of artistic and cultural creators.”
The city of Chanhassen, Minnesota declared October 28th, 2016 “Paisley Park Day” to recognize the opening of the complex’s museum.
