On April 9, 2025, Music Will hosted its Annual Benefit at Gotham Hall in New York City, uniting celebrated artists, educators, and supporters to uplift the next generation of music makers. The event spotlighted the power of music education and raised over $1 million to expand access in under-resourced schools.
At the heart of the night were the student performers from Ann Street Elementary School and Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy in New Jersey. You can watch the video documenting their experience preparing for the event below.
Student Spotlight
The Ann Street Elementary School students’ journey began weeks before, inside their classroom with the guidance of their teachers, Willan Saquicela and Margin Alexander. By the time they arrived at Gotham Hall for dress rehearsal and sound check, they had grown into a true ensemble. And when they finally took the stage, their performance of “Las Locuras Mías” and Selena’s “Amor Prohibido” was filled with heart, energy, and pride.
Music was there for us when nobody else understood us. Music is so powerful and, by some miracle, helped us know exactly what to sound like and exactly what to say. It is everything, truly. I owe everything to music because without it, I wouldn’t be the person I am now. – High School student, Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy
For many of the students, this was their first time performing outside of school, let alone in front of hundreds of guests, music legends, and industry leaders. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a transformation.
Music education creates these moments. It’s about more than learning songs—it builds confidence, creativity, and a sense of self.
The evening also featured a high-energy performance by Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy students. Their mash-up of Fall Out Boy’s “Sugar, We’re Goin Down” and Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” brought the crowd to its feet and honored Music Innovator Award recipient Wyclef Jean. The students dedicated their performance to their music teacher, Dr. Stephen Sabbot, with one student reflecting:
I needed to build a life around sound, and Dr. Sabbot helped me do that. – High School student, Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy
These performances reminded us that perfection isn’t the goal; growth is. When students are given a stage to express themselves, they show us what’s possible.
Honoring Musical Legacies
Throughout the evening, Music Will honored artists and advocates who have paved the way for future musicians. These honorees will now partner with the organization to expand access to music education across the country:
⋅ Wyclef Jean – Music Innovator Award
⋅ Sara Bareilles – Luminary Award
⋅ Jackson Browne – Legacy Award
⋅ Kristin Chenoweth – Inspire Award
Ann Street Elementary School | Photo by Taylor Hill, Getty Images
Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy | Photo by Taylor Hill, Getty Images
Hosted by GRAMMY-nominated artist Divinity Roxx, with musical direction by Michael Bearden, the program blended performances and reflections that amplified the night’s message: music changes lives.
Impact of the Music Will Benefit: $1M Raised
Thanks to our generous community, and a matching grant from The Wildflower Foundation, the night raised over $1 million. These funds will directly support:
⋅ Music Will’s free, culturally responsive curriculum
⋅ Professional development for music teachers
⋅ Free classroom instruments
From hip-hop and Latin to pop, rock, and country, students learn the music they already love. Music Will equips educators with practical tools and training to make it happen, every day, in classrooms nationwide.
It is amazing to see how [the students] succeed on stage and how they behave so professionally and artistically in this environment. It will be impossible to forget this experience, not only will it be printed in their lives, but also for us as teachers who have had this opportunity to assist them in finding this path of success. – Margin Alexander, Performing Arts Coach, Ann Street Elementary School
Why Music Education Matters Now More Than Ever
As students and musical guests took the stage for the finale, the standing ovation said it all. This was about what the future can look like when every student gets a chance to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
Because music education isn’t just about learning songs. It’s about discovering confidence, community, and a sense of self.
Music education is more important now than ever, especially as school programs face budget cuts and shifting priorities. That’s why Music Will is committed to reaching 11 million students annually over the next five years through its Music as a Second Language® pedagogy.
To learn more about the Music Will Benefit or how you can get involved, visit MusicWill.org. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Tiffanie Williams, Director of Corporate Philanthropy & Events, at [email protected].
