NAMM Foundation

“In January of this year, I got the amazing opportunity to go to The NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA as a Lamond GenNext Award recipient! I got to connect with old and new friends alike, and I got to do it all with a few of my peers from Rowan University. This was such an eye-opening conference to the music industry outside of the classical world, and I hope to continue learning from all types of musicians and creatives in our industry.” - Jennifer Calderon, Lamond GenNext Award recipient.

If you’re a college student exploring a future in music, this is your chance to be apart of the largest gathering of the industry! Apply for the Lamond GenNext Award at the link in our bio! 🗓️ Applications close September 9.

Music education continues to thrive in communities that prioritize access and opportunity! 🎵 Within districts like the Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District, students are being given meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and express themselves through music, and the impact is undeniable. 💡

The Best Communities for Music Education Award recognizes districts that go above and beyond to keep music learning strong, accessible, and thriving for all students 📚

🎉 Announcing the 2026 BCME Opportunity Award Winners 🎉

New in 2026, The NAMM Foundation expanded the Best Communities for Music Education Award program with the introduction of the Opportunity Award — which provides direct financial support for BCME-winning music education programs where it’s needed most.

This year, four outstanding schools and districts were selected to receive grants of $5,000, based on demonstrated financial need and the potential impact of funding.

Congratulations to our 2026 Opportunity Award recipients:
• Elizabeth Public Schools, Elizabeth, NJ
• Jacksonville High School, Jacksonville, AR
• Manor ISD, Manor, TX
• Newark Board of Education Newark, NJ

Your commitment to expanding access to music education is making a lasting difference for students and communities. We are proud to support your efforts and celebrate your impact!