The Save the Music Foundation, once synonymous with star-studded events featuring giants like Aretha Franklin and Celine Dion, has ventured into a new phase to further its mission of enhancing music education in schools. Initially under the umbrella of MTV and VH1, the nonprofit is now charting an independent course, aiming to broaden its donor base and deepen its impact across the United States.
Historically, Save the Music gained significant attention with its dynamic cable TV specials. However, the modern landscape demands a grassroots approach, focusing on the establishment and permanence of music programs in both elementary and secondary education. Recognizing this shift, the foundation made the strategic move to operate independently, shedding corporate ties with its former parent company, Paramount. This decision is a potential game-changer, as the foundation sets its sights on a diverse range of supporters, from individual donors to artists and industry professionals.
As Henry Donahue, the executive director of Save the Music, elaborates, Our vision is to be the primary advocate for music education, much like MusiCares is for health care within the music industry. We aim to become the trusted entity that artists, labels, and others consult when they want to engage communities through music education.
The transition to independence is not just a visionary statement; it is supported by tangible actions and notable supporters. Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has already contributed a transformative $2 million grant in 2021. Additionally, Save the Music has successfully launched a $10 million endowment fund, securing $4 million to date.
Such financial backing enables the foundation to focus profoundly on students, empowering them with the resources needed to explore their musical talents. A shining example of this impact is 17-year-old Ja'Marion Hulin from Daniel McLaughlin Therrell High School in Atlanta. With equipment supplied by the foundation, Ja'Marion oversees his school's record company, Panther Records, providing him and his peers with hands-on experience in music production.
Music teacher Samuel Davis highlights the transformative power of the foundation's support through the J Dilla Music Technology Grant. This program significantly influences student engagement and school attendance, Davis explains. It connects students with their peers and educators, enhancing their sense of belonging and commitment to their education. Echoing this sentiment, Ja'Marion dreams of shaping music for video game soundtracks, showcasing how access to technology and resources can nurture career aspirations beyond the classroom walls.
In cities like Brooklyn, New York, traditional music education also thrives with the foundation's assistance. Lonnie Hampton, a teacher at P.S. 20, shares how funding has allowed him to equip students with instruments like saxophones and clarinets. This access not only fosters musical growth but also allows students to appreciate that dedication and hard work can lead to tangible achievements.
John Sykes, the visionary behind the foundation's inception in 1997 while with MTV, applauds the nonprofit's growth and renewed focus. Music education reshapes the brain, equipping children with skills beneficial across multiple professions, from artists to public service workers, he shares, highlighting the broad impact of their mission.
As the Save the Music Foundation embarks on this independent journey, Sykes, now chair of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, supports its evolving structure and impact. He underscores that music education is both an art and a science, emphasizing its critical role in holistic education, a cornerstone valued by historical supporters and potential backers alike.
This independent evolution signifies a commitment not only to preserve but also to expand the reach of music education, inspiring generations and preparing them for a diverse future, all made possible through community and industry collaborations.