Music education is important in schools because it improves cognitive skills, teaches discipline, and offers a creative outlet. Unfortunately, underfunding can eliminate music programs from institutions. Explore the ways to keep music programs in your school below!
Start a Fundraiser
School fundraisers support a variety of causes, including music programs. Therefore, you can attract community support through a meaningful campaign. Before planning a fundraiser for the music program, meet with the program director to determine what students need.
Most likely, directors are familiar with fundraisers and can offer ideas. If you need additional support, research band fundraising ideas that actually work. You can host multiple campaigns throughout the year to ensure the program receives adequate support.
Obtain Grants
Music program funding isn’t exclusive to school boards and community fundraising. You can branch out and obtain grants for the school. Federal, corporate, and charitable grants can cover the costs of instruments, uniforms, and trips. Here are some grants worth researching:
- The Guitar Center Music Foundation
- The National Endowment for the Arts
- The VH1 Save The Music Foundation
- The Give A Note Foundation
- The ASCAP Foundation
Ask for Sponsorships
Do you have music-themed businesses in your town? What about companies interested in charitable giving? If so, ask for sponsorships. Music-related businesses may donate instruments and equipment to music programs. Other companies may fund initiatives like trips to concerts or band competitions. Regardless of their offerings, additional support can improve music programs.
Attend Performances
Attending performances is one of the easiest ways to support music education. A large audience proves that performance arts are important to the school and community. Performances can also boost students’ confidence as they work hard to perfect songs.
Besides school administration and staff, reach out to your network of friends and family. Ask them to attend recitals and donate to the program. Outside support can make a huge difference!
Encourage Student Participation
A lack of participation can influence school budget cuts. After all, why would school districts fund an unsuccessful program? Therefore, encouraging student participation can help keep music programs in your school. The more members, the better! This proves that bands are essential to schools and that students actively engage with music. You can encourage participation by advertising band tryouts, music lessons, or other related events.
