About Us

Ethos Music Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of music and music-based education for youth in underserved communities. Founded in 1998, Ethos brings music education back to several thousand students every year.

 

 

 

 

 

History of Ethos

Ethos was officially organized in 1998 by Charles Lewis and a dedicated group of volunteer staff and instructors.  The first classes were offered in the basement of the University of Portland.  Since that time the organization has moved (and purchased) a North Portland location and has grown to become one of Oregon’s largest arts education sources and has received numerous regional and national awards:

• E-Town’s E-chievement Award for program excellence (2004)
• Oregon Festival and Events: First place for Ethos’ Educational Program
• Semi-Finalist – Coming Up Taller Award by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (2003, 2005, 2010, 2011, 2012)

Ethos is a community based organization and is the result of the involvement of hundreds of volunteers, former staff, and Board members.  We always remember those who have helped shape Ethos’ programs while looking forward to the future of the organization.