We all understand the life-changing power of music education. But here’s the reality: music education can’t change the lives of the children who decide not to participate. That’s why we’re tackling a lesser-known challenge—getting more students involved in music programs. While most of the focus in education advocacy has been on providing access, we’re moving the needle on an equally important issue: low student participation rates in existing music programs.
The Real Participation Challenge
Nationally, millions of middle school and high school students have access to music classes, but the majority choose not to join. In fact, over tens of million of kids who could benefit from music education either opt out or never give it a try. That’s over 80% of students in schools with music programs!
What’s happening? For too many kids, music classes don’t feel like a space where they belong, where the music that they know and love is valued or taught. As a result, they don’t get to experience the joy, creativity, and confidence that music can bring. At Music Will, we’re changing that by designing programs that reflect the diverse, vibrant communities we serve…bringing classes that focus on pop, rock, rap, Latin, R&B and other styles that SO many kids love SO much.
Building Music Classes, Kids Want to Be Part Of
Music Will helps educators to build music programs as diverse and beautiful as the kids they serve. Our goal is to create spaces where every student sees themselves—whether that’s through the instruments they play, the music they create, or the teachers who inspire them. Kids who see themselves and their communities reflected in their education know that school is for them. That’s why, by 2030, Music Will plans to impact 11 million students each year through our programs and teaching approaches. Our goal is to inspire participation, not just offer access. We need to make make sure more kids say, “Yes!” to music education.
Why This Matters
Music education offers so many benefits—better grades, improved emotional well-being, and skills like creativity and teamwork. But those benefits only come if students actually take part in music programs. Through innovative teacher training, culturally sustaining curricula, and a focus on making music relatable and fun, we’re ensuring students stay excited about music. By 2030, we hope to ensure that nearly 40% of students participating in music programs will be taught by a teacher influenced by Music Will’s pedagogy. That’s a huge step toward creating a more engaging and inclusive music education system.
The Future Starts Now
We know that when students are engaged, participation grows. That’s why we’re focused on creating a positive feedback loop: the more students who join and enjoy music programs, the more schools will invest in them. This system ensures that music education thrives for years to come, helping future generations of kids discover their passion for music.
And as participation grows, we create even more momentum. More students, more music, more change.
How You Can Help
We’re asking you to join us. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who believes in the power of music, your support can help us engage more students and ensure they have the opportunity to participate in music classes that feel like home.
Music Will is working to ensure that MORE kids get to make MORE music for MORE meaning for MORE of their lives. We are committed to shaping the future of music education where every student feels excited to be part of a music class—and we hope you’ll be a part of it too! The time is now. Music education can only change lives if kids decide to participate. Let’s create music programs that reflect the beauty of the kids they serve and inspire them to join in.
Visit our About page to learn more about how you can get involved and help us make music a core part of every child’s education.
