Portneuf Medical Center
Piano Gallery
JRM Foundation for Humanity
Briks & More LLC
DW Investors
Become Our Golden Partner ($2500-$5000)
Become Our Platinum Partner ($5000-$15000)
Become Our Platinum Plus Partner ($15000 and above)
The KIND Conservatory—which stands for Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication—is a 501(c)(3) non-profit youth conservatory dedicated to providing high-quality music education to youth in Bannock County, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Located in the heart of the historic Pocatello downtown near the prominent city landmarks Lookout Point and Marshall Public Library, we've created a space where young people can develop musical talents in addition to essential life skills.
We strive for excellence in music instruction and performance through kindness, rigor, and passion. We aim for conservatory-level music education in our community.
412 W Center, Pocatello, ID, 83204
(208) 405-2007
info@thekindconservatory.com
"Kind" and "Conservatory" aren't usually associated terms. In the world of classical music, conservatories are often associated with a cold, harsh atmosphere, however at the Kind Conservatory, we challenge that stereotype. Yes, mastering classical music demands hard work, but we believe it can be done in an environment of warmth and support. Kindness doesn’t mean we lower the bar. It means our instructors guide students with both rigor and compassion. Success in music isn’t just about talent; it’s about the relationship between teacher and student, developing a love for music, and the lasting dedication to the craft. This success is facilitated by encouragement from both educators and parents. Our instructors have spent years honing their skills, not just as musicians but as teachers who care about each student’s journey. We focus on building musicianship, but we also prioritize human connection.
Our programs are designed to promote cognitive development, emotional well-being, and social skills. We offer:
Scholarships and Financial Aid (www.kindsonservatory.org/scholarship): Ensuring all talented students have access to high-quality music education, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Annual GEMS Piano Competition (www.gemscompetition.org): Continuing the 25-year legacy of the Musicians West Piano Competition, providing young musicians with prestigious performance opportunities.
Community Outreach: Collaborations with local schools and the Idaho State Civic Symphony to bring music education to a broader audience. We partner with Piano Gallery to offer exclusive discounts for instruments and music supplies for our students. We have long-time connections with the Idaho State University music department allowing us to make sure our students have access to the most advanced training in the region.
Our conservatory is centrally located near prominent Pocatello landmarks, Lookout Point, and Marshalls Library. It features a newly established recital venue housing one of the finest instruments in Pocatello—a grand piano Kawai GX5. This provides a high-quality experience for both performers and audiences. We can host up to 100 guests.
However, to fully realize the potential of this space, we need to address essential facility enhancements, including soundproofing, renovation, hiring the best instructors, and acquisition of additional high-quality instruments.
To continue offering these transformative programs and to upgrade our facilities, we rely on the generous support of community partners. Your contribution would directly impact our ability to:
Improve Pocatello Downtown Appeal and Enhance Facilities: Invest in soundproofing and renovations to create an optimal learning and performance environment, benefiting both our students and the community.
Expand Access: Increase the number of scholarships available to students from underserved communities.
Acquire High-Quality Instruments: Purchase additional instruments to accommodate our growing student body, ensuring they have access to professional-grade equipment.
Promote Community Well-being: Music education contributes to cognitive development, emotional health, and social cohesion, aligning with your mission to enhance health in our region.
Director and Founder
Dr. Lauk is a Russian-born pianist She draws on the traditions of Russian piano pedagogy, emphasizing efficient movement and sustainable technique to prevent overuse injuries.
Vice President, Strategic Advisor.
Dakota Worrell is an established Multi-Family real estate investor. He has improved multiple dilapidated properties for the past few years, creating modern, safe, and affordable housing in Pocatello, Idaho.
Vice President, Facilities and Operations
Denis Clijsters is credited with revitalising Pocatello downtown. As a successful real estate investor, Denis brings a wealth of experience in business development and strategic planning to our organization.
KIND Conservatory—which stands for Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication—is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in downtown Pocatello, Idaho. Our mission is to make high-quality music education accessible to young musicians of all backgrounds by eliminating financial barriers through targeted scholarships and financial aid.
At KIND Conservatory, we provide rigorous music instruction in a nurturing and inclusive environment that prioritizes both artistic excellence and personal development. Our focus extends beyond music; we aim to cultivate discipline, creativity, and a deep sense of community engagement. We firmly believe that access to advanced musical training should be determined by talent and commitment—not by financial means. By empowering young people through the arts, we seek to equip them with the tools to contribute meaningfully to both their communities and the broader world.
Our annual GEMS (Gem State) Piano Competition (www.gemscompetition.org) offers Idaho’s pre-college and young artist pianists a unique chance to perform for a panel of nationally recognized judges. Open exclusively to Idaho residents, the competition continues the legacy of the Musicians West Piano Competition, which upheld 25 years of excellence. GEMS preserves this tradition by emphasizing both technical mastery and artistic expression, giving participants the opportunity to grow under the guidance of experienced, respected pianists and educators.
Held at the Stephens Performing Arts Center, known for its outstanding acoustics and esteemed reputation, the event offers young musicians a rare and professional stage experience. By maintaining high standards and offering thoughtful, detailed critiques, the GEMS Piano Competition helps prepare participants for the next steps in their musical journeys, while honoring a longstanding tradition of fostering musical excellence in Idaho.
We offer several partnership levels to align with your philanthropic goals:
Platinum Plus Partner ($15,000 and above):
Naming Rights: Opportunity to name our recital hall or a major program after your organization.
All other Platinum Partner recognition, access, and initiatives
Platinum Partner ($5,000-15,000)
Prominent Recognition: A custom large plaque on our black granite wall and featured acknowledgment on our website, event programs, and promotional materials (preliminary examples shown below).
Exclusive Access: VIP invitations to all events, including private recitals and meet-and-greet sessions with students and faculty.
Collaborative Initiatives: Co-hosted community wellness events integrating music and health education.
Gold Partner ($2,500-5,000):
Significant Recognition: A dedicated plaque in the recital venue and acknowledgment on our website and event programs.
Event Access: Invitations to major events and special performances.
Program Sponsorship: Option to sponsor a specific scholarship or educational program.
Silver Partner ($1,000 – $2,500):
Recognition: Acknowledgment on our donor wall and in event programs.
Event Invitations: Access to select events and recitals.
Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community outreach programs.
Bronze Partner ($500-$1,000):
Recognition: Personalized framed appreciation certificate and your name in our annual report and event programs.
Event Passes: Complimentary tickets to student recitals and competitions.