By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The Settlement Music School received a grant from The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation to provide music training to children from low-income families.

The $250,000 grant will allow the school to expand its string, winds, jazz and choral ensembles at four community sites in Philadelphia. It will also give 30 students access to year round private instruction. Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter says the money provides an opportunity to children with a passion for music:

“There are thousands out there who really do have the drive and the talent out there, but not the means to really nurture their talents to their fullest potential.”

South Philadelphia native Chubby Checker spoke at the ceremony, recalling his own education at Settlement.

“From 1958 to 2008, the Twist was voted the number one song of all time. And all of this is attached to this school.”

Chubby Checker addresses the crowd at The Settlement Music School. (credit: Cherri Gregg)

Executive Director Helen Eaton says the renewable grant is one of the largest gift the Settlement School has ever received.