Providing access to inclusive, engaging music education is an essential and effective tactic in the fight against marginalization. We annually support over 200 non-profit organizations bringing music back into our communities and schools by getting kids to play as early and as frequently as possible. Through monetary and product support, we’re proud to serve those who are serving their communities.
Children who receive early and consistent musical instruction are the beneficiaries of profound advantages, both cognitive and social. The impact of these programs can be seen in the competence, confidence, and enrichment of these students’ lives in ways that are at once substantive, enduring, and scientifically proven. We don’t consider music to be a small piece of a well rounded education, but rather an essential component to its holistic growth as a whole. We view music education as the key that unlocks long-lasting and meaningful change for our community, our country, and our world.
The research is conclusive, the evidence is quantifiable, yet many music programs remain under-supported. At present, 40% of high schools in the U.S. do not require music or arts credits to graduate.
While the state of global music education grows increasingly dire, we see it as an opportunity to make larger, more substantive impacts in the lives of children around the world. Moments of great need set the stage for significant change, and the fight for the survival of these programs is in the here and now.
Our efforts, partnerships, and data research all point toward one conclusion–that immersive music education programs could be the single most effective way to engage students, build self-confidence, improve academic achievement, and create community.
All over the world, our mission is to find and support the programs, organizations, and individuals that are doing the best work and need the most help. Through 700 programs in 54 countries around the world, we’ve found many like-minded people in tune with our core values, and we’re proud to reach across oceans, borders, and cultures to help provide global access to this universal language.
“Music has helped me get through my toughest moments. It has shaped my growth as a person and it allows me to express myself without constraints. There aren't enough words to describe how I feel about winning the D'Addario Foundation College Scholarship, but what I can articulate is that this amazing opportunity has given me another reason to believe in myself, and even more passion to pursue my dreams.” - Keldy Penaranda, Stockton University
Our foundation supports a portfolio of diverse and impactful programs all over the world. 100% of every dollar raised goes directly to our programs and the children. That means more instruments, scholarships, and indispensable programs like these…
“While listening to music engages the brain in some pretty interesting activities, playing music is the brain’s equivalent of a full-body workout. The neuroscientists saw multiple areas of the brain light up simultaneously processing different information in intricate, interrelated, and astonishingly fast sequences. Playing a musical instrument engages practically every area of the brain at once, especially the visual, auditory, and motor cortices. As with any other workout, disciplined structured practice in playing music strengthens those brain functions allowing us to apply that strength to other activities.”
Anita Collins, How Playing An Instrument Benefits Your Brain
