On May 7th, surrounded by celebrated artists, dedicated educators, generous supporters, and local student bands, Music Will raised over $1 million at our 2026 Annual Benefit Gala at the Marriott Marquis in New York City.
This night has always been about more than fundraising. It’s a chance to pause and remember why we do this work, and every year, it’s the students who remind us most powerfully.
Thank You to Our 2026 Honorees
This year, we proudly celebrated legendary figures who champion arts and education. Their commitment reminds us that our work resonates far beyond the classroom walls.
T Bone Burnett received the Cultural Impact Award, presented by his longtime friend Elvis Costello. T Bone’s remarks stayed with everyone in the room. He spoke about music as “the language beneath all other language,” and about what’s lost when we strip the arts from schools. He then performed “Humans from Earth” and “Everything and Nothing” alongside Amy Helm, Larry Campbell, and Tony Garnier — a quiet, profound close to his moment on stage.
Master P accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award with the same energy he’s brought to everything he’s ever done. He talked about how music made him believe in himself and then introduced two Passaic Prep Academy students who performed verses they’d written together with him. The crowd was on its feet.
Bruce Eskowitz, COO of Red Light Management, received the inaugural Music Icon Award, a new honor created to recognize his extraordinary impact on the industry and the artists he’s championed. His colleague Coran Capshaw presented it, Nile Rodgers surprised him on stage, and Lionel Richie joined by video. Lionel said it best: “Music Will helps us remember why music matters in the first place.”
Maren Morris was honored with the Creative Dreamers Award, and watching her receive it, visibly moved, looking out at the students sharing the stage with her was one of those moments that stays with you. She closed the evening with “The Bones” and “My Church,” students by her side.
We are so grateful to each of these honorees for lending their voices to this mission and for showing our students what a life devoted to music can look like.
Our Mission in Action: The Student Bands
TEP Elementary opened the night with a stirring performance of “Glory.” Soon after, the Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) guitar ensemble earned a standing ovation for their cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Can’t Stop.” After the music faded, a TAPCo student named Dylan shared how Music Will allows him to train like a professional. Consequently, he views this experience as something he will value for the rest of his life.
Our emcee, the wonderful N’Kenge, also shared her personal journey. She mentioned a student who recently told her, “I didn’t have a role model until I met you today.” Additionally, the night saw a touching moment when Nile Rodgers watched the students perform. He noted that they reminded him of his own childhood. Because of this connection, he made a $25,000 donation on the spot. He later called it the best money he had ever spent.
What This Night Makes Possible
Thanks to your extraordinary generosity, we raised over $1 million. This total brings us a meaningful step closer to our goal of reaching 11 million students by 2030. Currently, our programs reach 1.4 million students across the country.
We know the research. We know that schools with music programs see higher graduation rates and better attendance. And students in music outperform peers in core academic subjects. But more than any statistic, we know what it looks like when a student finds their place, their confidence, their voice, through music. As CEO, Mike Wasserman shared that music becomes a place of belonging and a powerful builder of confidence.
With Gratitude
This evening was presented by Gregory and Carolyn Hall, produced by Michael Matuza and MBM Entertainment, and co-chaired by Jonathan Shank and Gregory Hall.
A special thank you to our incredible Musical Director, Michael Bearden, and the Big Time All-Stars, who year after year provide the heartbeat for our benefit performers and stand as true champions for our young students. Thank you to our Honorary Benefit Chair Wyclef Jean, to every performer, presenter, educator, and donor in the room, and to the Music Will community that shows up, year after year, for the students who need this most.
Keep the Music Playing All Year Long. The Annual Benefit was just the beginning. By becoming a monthly donor, you provide the consistent support needed to reach our goal of 11 million students by 2030. Become a Monthly Donor ↗
Relive the Magic: View our full 2026 Annual Benefit Photo Gallery
As Seen In: Relix | Shore Fire Media | CelebrityAccess | Time Square Chronicles | People
