Who is Daniel?

Daniel

Daniel’s Music Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides free music programs for people with disabilities from 3 years old to adult in the New York City area. Membership is free. There are no dues or fees required for any classes.

In February 2006, DMF music programs started with 1 keyboard class and 5 members. During the 2010 spring semester, we will be providing 25 music instruction classes.

The catalyst of the Foundation is Daniel Trush, a 26-year-old survivor of five brain aneurysms. Daniel has used music in his cognitive rehabilitation and to help overcome his challenges. Having personally benefited from playing the keyboard, Daniel has dedicated his life to helping others through music. The Foundation was founded in 2005 and is facilitated by the entire Trush family (Ken, Nancy and Michael) along with an experienced staff of instructors and volunteers.

Daniel Trush

“When I was 12 years old, one of my five brain aneurysms burst in my head while I was playing basketball. I was in a coma for 30 days and hospitalized for 341 days, but who's counting? Although I still face challenges, music has always played an important role in my life. It helped me in my recovery and still brings me happiness. I want to share this gift with you.”

Daniel is a co-founder of the Foundation and is actively involved in all areas of the foundation. One day per week he also volunteers at the pediatric unit of The Rusk Institute where he spent close to 9 months in 1997 and 1998 during his recovery and rehabilitation. During his free time, he enjoys walking with The Achilles Track Club, a running club for people with disabilities. Daniel finished the 2007 ING New York City Marathon on November 4, 2007 in 7:46, a feat no one could have ever imagined 10 plus years ago. Click here for a 6-minute video produced by Reading Rainbow.

Ken Trush

“While Daniel was recovering and couldn't speak, music was our common language. I saw how music became the vehicle for Daniel to express himself, to gain self-esteem, build confidence, and be creative and innovative. Through DMF, my hope is that Daniel's passion will benefit others in the same way.”

Ken is Daniel's father and is a co-founder of the Foundation. Ken works closely with Daniel in the development of the music programs and in the marketing, fundraising and administrative areas of the foundation. He has worked for over 30 years in the financial, accounting and operational areas of business.

Nancy Trush

Nancy is Daniel’s mother and is a co-founder of the Foundation. She has a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and has worked at The Brick Church School for over 15 years. Prior to Brick, she taught kindergarten at The Dalton School. Nancy’s teaching experience has been helpful in the development of the music programs and curriculum.

Michael Trush

Michael is Daniel’s brother and is a co-founder of the Foundation. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Manhattanville College in May 2009. He is currently interning in the pediatric neuropsychology department at The Rusk Institute prior to going to graduate school. Michael has played an important role in developing the volunteer programs at Manhattanville as well as The Dalton School.