About Our School

Experience the Gibson Difference: Fostering Creativity and Skill Development

Welcome to the Gibson School of Music & Arts, Philadelphia’s premier institution for arts and music education.  At Gibson School of Music & Arts, we are more than just a music and arts school. We have been dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and nurturing creativity and expression in a vibrant, safe community setting. We are a community built on passion, creativity, and a love for music and the arts. Our mission is to foster creativity, skill development, and a lifelong love for music and the arts in every student we teach.

We’re committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where students can explore their artistic talents and achieve their goals. Whether you’re a young child embarking on your musical journey or an adult looking to fulfill a lifelong dream, we are here to guide and inspire you every step of the way.

ABOUT OUR FOUNDER

Professor Randy J. Gibson

Professor Randy J. Gibson is a distinguished pianist, composer, and educator, renowned for his mastery of classical, gospel, jazz, and contemporary music. He also taught music as a professor in college for over 17 years. He founded the Gibson School of Music & Arts in 1995, a black-owned music school, together with his wife Wilhemina. Since then, Professor Randy J. Gibson has been a pivotal figure in Philadelphia’s music education scene. He studied at the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts, Temple University, and Combs College of Music, culminating in a Master’s degree in Music.

Under Professor Gibson’s leadership, the Gibson School of Music & Arts has nurtured generations of musicians, including notable artists like Kamal Gray and James Poyser of The Roots, and R&B star Jazmine Sullivan. As a global mentor, his guidance has propelled students to prominence in diverse venues and in winning major awards like Grammys, Emmys, and Tonys. Professor Gibson offers invaluable counsel, helping young artists navigate the complexities of life through music.

Professor Gibson’s unique artistic output includes “Tacony Creek Suite,” a profound reflection of his deep engagement with both the environment of Tacony Creek Park and critical social issues.

This project expanded with support from the William Penn Foundation and resulted in a widely celebrated album and concert film featuring his ensemble, Double Portion.

Our Philosophy

Our Mission

Our mission is to ignite passion and channel expression in both children and adults, fostering a nurturing and safe environment where creativity flourishes and community bonds strengthen.

Our Vision

Inspire individuals to realize their artistic dreams. We aim for our students to lead lives enriched by passion and community, learning through music and the arts. At Gibson School of Music & Arts, we celebrate our alumni’s success, which exemplifies the powerful results of dedication and creativity that have made Philadelphia a beacon of music and art history.

Our Values

Educational Excellence

We commit to the highest standards of teaching and learning in music and arts, making sure that every student achieves their full potential.

Creative Expression

We encourage a broad exploration of artistic disciplines, fostering innovation and personal expression in a supportive environment.

Community Connection

We strive to strengthen bonds within our community, promoting inclusivity and engagement through our music and arts programs, and events.

Lifelong Learning

We support continuous development for individuals of all ages, emphasizing the importance of lifelong education in the arts.

Inspirational Leadership

We lead by example, inspiring students and staff alike with a dedication to the arts and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists.

Our Instructors & Staff

Our instructors are a diverse group of globally recognized professionals with a unique gift for teaching.

Meet the people who make us your best choice for music and arts education in Philadelphia.

Our Accolades

AWARDS

2020

City Citation from the Office of Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker.

2012

Community Service Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc.

2002

Honorary Citation from the Office of Councilwoman Marion B. Tasco.

GRANTS

2021

Grant through the Wells Fargo Open for Business Fund, endorsed by Leslie Odom.

2020

LISC Small Business Relief Grant.

2009

Storefront Improvement Program Grant sponsored by the Philadelphia Department of Commerce.

2008

Merchants Fund Grant for building renovations and improvements.

The Evolution of Our School

TIMELINE

Professor Randy J. Gibson founded the Gibson Schol of Music & Arts when he acquired the longstanding Zapf’s Music School.
2003
We added a music retail store and an art and animation room to enhance our arts and music educational offerings.
2010
Introduced a cafe to foster a more vibrant social space for creativity and interaction.
2022
1995
We purchased a 12,000-square-foot building in the business district of the Olney section in North Philadelphia, enriching our presence in a vibrant multicultural community.
2004
Constructed a concert hall to host a wide range of performances and community events.
2014
Renovated and Upgraded to School, Retail Store and Concert Hall

LET'S MAKE ART

Ready to step into the world of art and music?

Explore our facilities and discover the vibrant activities and classes that bring our community together.