In 2015, Margaret Gonzalez and Steve Perdicaris co-founded an El Sistema–inspired after-school music education program for underserved children in San Francisco’s Mission District. For over a decade, classes were held at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts. Following its closure, the program relocated to The Marsh Theater, with additional classes offered at the Community Music Center.
Music Mission San Francisco (MMSF) now provides approximately 60 classes each year, running from September through May. Instruction includes basic musicianship as well as violin, cello, flute, clarinet, trumpet, and trombone.
In 2020, Music Mission San Francisco officially became a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Since 2024, MMSF has served nearly 50 students annually. The program—including instruments—is offered free of charge.
​
​
