1.8M
students served
100K
instruments and equipment donated
6,000
schools supported
Our Mission
Transforming Lives by Transforming Music Education
Music Will runs the largest nonprofit music program in the U.S. public school system. Over the past 20 years, we’ve reached more than 1.8 million students across all 50 states—and today, we’re serving over one million students every year.
By helping teachers bring modern, culturally responsive music into their classrooms, we create space for students to feel confident, connected, and free to express who they are.
WHY MUSIC EDUCATION?
3.6 million students don’t have access to music education
But access is only part of the problem. Over 25 million students are choosing not to participate, even when music is offered in their schools. Why? Because most programs don’t reflect the music they know and love.
Our Modern Band Approach changes that—by teaching popular music that resonates with today’s students, we’re expanding what is being offered in schools and welcoming those who have never felt music class was for them.
Because music can’t change the life of a student who opts out.
Youth Wellness
Music Education Supports the Whole Student
In a time of record youth anxiety and disconnection, music education is a developmental engine for students’ social, emotional, and cognitive growth. It offers a safe space to express emotions, build confidence, and connect with others.
Many students tell us that music is why they come to school each day. And the benefits extend far beyond the classroom—shaping how they think, feel, and learn for life.
Five Ways Music Education Fuels Student Wellness
1
Improved Engagement & Behavior
Music Will teachers report noticeable improvements in student focus, motivation, and classroom behavior.
2
Better Attendance & Graduation Rates
Schools with strong music programs consistently report higher student attendance and graduation outcomes.
3
Enhanced Cognitive Skills
Music participation builds memory, attention, and executive function—foundations for lifelong learning.
4
Stronger Emotional Well‑Being
Music reduces stress, supports emotional regulation, and fosters a deep sense of belonging.
5
Improved Academic Performance
Students involved in music demonstrate stronger literacy skills and improved academic achievement overall.
Our Future
Music for Millions
We're growing a generation of students who see themselves in the music they make. Through our Music for Millions campaign, we’re scaling nationally to reach 11 million students annually by 2030—with modern music programs that center student voice, foster connection, and fuel creativity in every classroom.
We help teachers build highly inclusive, student-centered music classes
We support teachers by offering free virtual and in-person workshops as well as student curriculum. We also provide a community for teachers to inspire and learn from each other as they strive to positively impact their students.
We provide modern band music curricular tools for students and teachers
Empowering students is the core of all we do. With our diverse curriculum, students can learn songs by artists they love on instruments they’re playing. They can even record their own music.
It Starts with Music.
It Lasts a Lifetime.
Your support does more than fund music programs—it fuels confidence, healing, and connection for our nation's youth who need it most.
For gifts over $5,000, we’d love to connect directly. Please reach out to give@musicwill.org to maximize your impact.
