Keys 2 Success at the Krueger-Scott Mansion

On November 1st, Keys 2 Success hosted an inspiring event at the historic Krueger-Scott Mansion, drawing guests into an afternoon of powerful performances by talented young musicians. Set in this grand Newark landmark, the event celebrated a bright future embodied by the students of Pennington Court public housing and others from around the city—students whose resilience and talent represent hope and opportunity.

Brendan Da Silva, lead of the DaSilva Real Estate team, opened the event with a captivating history of the mansion. Originally built in 1888 by brewer Gottfried Krueger, the mansion later became the home of Madame Louise Scott, Newark’s first African-American female millionaire. He eloquently connected the work of a real estate company with the arts by saying “We love this city, and it’s the role of artists like these to cultivate, capture, and enlarge beauty in spaces.

Beauty comes in many forms. People are beautiful, and our youth are an expression of beauty in the city. We are so grateful to host these wonderful gatherings and spotlight the great work that Keys 2 Success is doing every day.“

Throughout the event, attendees were deeply moved by passionate performances from Keys 2 Success students, who shared their dedication, skill, and dream\s through classical and

jazz-inspired music. The program brought together supporters, community partners, and advocates for music and education, united in the belief that the arts can empower Newark’s youth.

The program featured remarks from Samuel McDonald, Education Manager at The New Jersey Symphony, a long-time partner that has championed Keys 2 Success since its inception in 2016. By providing masterclasses, mentorship, and collaborative performances with symphony musicians, the New Jersey Symphony has enabled Keys students to learn directly from

world-class artists, expanding their musical and cultural horizons.

Tricia Tunstall, representing the El Sistema New Jersey Alliance, gave an inspiring perspective on music’s role in social change. Drawing from her international research, Tricia illustrated how music can uplift individuals and communities, sharing, “Kids see each other, they help each other, and even teach each other. There is an intense group ensemble ethic. I have never seen it stronger than at Keys 2 Success. It’s embedded in the community—parents, siblings, everyone is invited. That’s what makes it so transformative"

Jee-Hoon Krska, Executive Director of Keys 2 Success and Juilliard-trained pianist, spoke about the transformative power of philanthropy and music. Reflecting on her own journey as an immigrant who achieved the American Dream through scholarships, Jee-Hoon shared, “Music opens doors—it did for me, and that’s the gift I want to share with Newark’s students. I received music lessons for free thanks to the generosity of others, and I want to offer that same gift to our students.”

The event concluded with a moving address by Shaughnessy Price, Director of Development for Keys 2 Success. “Looking ahead, we envision Keys becoming a model for strategically placed,

relationship-focused education that sets a standard worth replicating in communities everywhere,” she said, underscoring Keys 2 Success’s mission to nurture not only productive citizens of tomorrow but to uplift entire communities.

Keys 2 Success tackles the inequities in Newark’s music education by offering culturally-sustaining group piano classes that meet students where they are—whether in housing projects, parks, gardens, or even on backyards and sidewalks. This approach removes transportation barriers and reinforces each student’s sense of belonging and community.

For more information about Keys 2 Success and its programs, please visit Keysnewark.com.