Sara Bareilles, Jackson Browne and Kristen Chenoweth have been added as honorees and performers, alongside the previously announced Wyclef Jean, for a concert gala in New York benefiting Music Will, which is described as the nation’s largest nonprofit music education program for schools. The org’s annual event takes place April 9 at Gotham Hall.
Michael Bearden, the music director of this year’s Oscars, will segue from that duty to holding the same role at the Music Will benefit.
Co-chairs for the event are Terrapin Station Entertainment CEO Jonathan Shank and Gregory Hall, the managing director and head of U.S. global wealth management for Pimco.
“Music education transforms lives,” Chenoweth said in a statement. “It provides kids a voice that builds confidence and opens doors to endless possibilities. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful music can be, and I believe every child deserves the chance to experience that. I am beyond excited to be part of this incredible event with Music Will, celebrating their mission to bring music into more classrooms and more young lives. It’s an honor to support such important work.”
Said Music Will CEO Mike Wasserman: “At Music Will, we believe that music is a force for change—a catalyst that opens doors and transforms lives. We’re thrilled to welcome and honor icons like Sara Bareilles, Jackson Browne, Kristin Chenoweth, and Wyclef Jean, whose artistry and commitment inspire our work. Their dedication reinforces our mission to ensure every student, regardless of background, has access to life-changing music programs that ignite creativity, build communities, and unlock potential beyond the classroom. Together, we’re setting the stage for a future where music education continues to empower the next generation.”
Last year’s honorees were Josh Groban, Andra Day and Rhiannon Giddens. Past honorees and performers at Music Will benefits have included Bruce Springsteen, Lady Gaga, Usher, Bonnie Raitt, Elvis Costello, Tom Morello, Darryl McDaniels of Run-D.M.C., Yo-Yo Ma, Smokey Robinson, Mavis Staples, Joan Jett and Wiz Khalifa.
Receiving the Visionary Award at the event will be Jerry Goldenson, president of KHS America, for his commitment to music education.
Presented by the Hot Topic Foundation, the evening will feature performances along with a silent online auction and remarks from artistic and business supporters. The event will provide funding for Music Will’s ongoing mission to provide teacher training, a diverse curriculum and free musical instruments to students. The organization has a presence in 6,000 schools across the nation and over 100,000 instruments donated to date
Tickets are available at www.musicwill.org/benefit. Bids for the benefit’s silent auction items, including one-of-a-kind donations from music stars, can be submitted on the Music Will website.