Music Will Honorees Wyclef Jean, Sara Bareilles, Kristin Chenoweth & Jackson Browne. Photo Credit: Taylor Hill/Getty Images.
This week, music education non-profit Music Will--honored Grammy-winning artist, producer, writer, and composer Wyclef Jean (The Music Innovator Award), award-winning singer, songwriter, actor and producer Sara Bareilles (The Luminary Award), singer/songwriter and member of the Rock and Roll and Songwriters Hall of Fame Jackson Browne (The Legacy Award), and Emmy and Tony award-winning singer and actress Kristin Chenoweth (The Inspire Award) at their annual benefit at Gotham Hall in New York City.
The event was emceed by Grammy-nominated musician, producer, composer and author Divinity Roxx and Music Directed by Michael Bearden, following his role as Music Director for this year’s Academy Awards.
Sara Bareilles said “The evening was shared with musical heroes of mine, but more than anything the kids were front and center...Thank you to everyone who made last night possible. It was thrilling and joyful and soul food."
The event generated nearly one million dollars to, "support Music Will’s mission to transform young lives through innovative, popular music education programs in public schools," a statement reads. "A generous matching grant from The Wildflower Foundation will double the impact of donations made during the event, ensuring that even more students will have access to life-changing music education. With the forward momentum this year’s benefit and celebrity partnerships will provide, Music Will can reach their goals to reach more students and kids across the country. Over the next five years, Music Will aims to impact 11 million students annually through their direct programs and Music as a Second Language® pedagogy."
"Funds raised from this year’s benefit will provide essential funding for Music Will’s ongoing mission to provide free teacher training, resources, and musical instruments to students—connecting them with the music that ignites their interest," they continue. "Jerry Goldenson, President of KHS America also received the Visionary Awardfor his ongoing commitment to music education. Goldenson has long served as an advocate for making music education accessible to all and remains dedicated to changing lives through music by providing innovative, high-quality instruments that are accessible and affordable for musicians and schools nationwide."
"Research shows that more than 3.6 million students in the United States lack access to music education in their schools. Music Will is working to change that by expanding access and increasing participation in music programs. A recent study published by the American Psychological Association reveals that music students score significantly better in science, math, and English than their nonmusical peers, demonstrating that music is a vital component of academic success. Thanks to this year’s donations and generous matching grant from The Wildflower Foundation, even more students across the country will have the opportunity to experience transformative music education through Music Will."
Visit musicwill.org for more info.
