NAMM's Role in Advocating for Federal Funds for Music Education

four squares with photos of a pencil and sheet music, a blue drum kit with an African American child playing with a teacher standing by and other children playing instruments.

December 6, 2024

NAMM has played a pivotal role in advocating for music education, particularly in lobbying Congress for federal funding that supports music programs across the United States. Through initiatives like the annual D.C. Fly-In and ongoing investments in key partnerships, NAMM aims to ensure that music remains a vital part of students’ education, enhancing their academic, social and emotional development, while equipping them with essential skills required for today’s workforce.

Historical Advocacy

namm CEO john mlynczak in the Capitol Building

NAMM’s unwavering commitment to music education advocacy goes back decades. From bringing Elmo to testify on behalf of music education before Congress in 2002, to our work on the language of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in 2015, NAMM consistently aligns industry with music education. Indeed, NAMM worked with other major arts organizations to include language in ESSA explicitly allowing funds to be used for a “well-rounded” education that includes music and arts. And we did not stop advocating during the global pandemic. Instead, we quickly reinvented our D.C. Fly-In into virtual advocacy events. Our triumphant return to Capitol Hill in 2023 affirmed that NAMM remains steadfast in its efforts to keep music education strong.

Title I Provides Equity and Access

NAMM remains deeply committed to advocating for Title I funding, which provides federal money to schools with a high percentage of low-income students who are eligible to receive free or reduced meals at school. NAMM and its members are dedicated to ensuring that these schools also receive the necessary resources for an equitable education that includes music.

The NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In

NAMM members on the steps of the U.S. Capitol

Through the NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In, we have mobilized hundreds of members to influence policy decisions that promote the inclusion of music education in schools. The Fly-In brings together music products business leaders, educators, partner organizations and policymakers, fostering collaboration and amplifying the need for music programs in federal and state budgets. With a new administration and Congress in 2025, our May 5–8, 2025, Fly-In is an opportunity to forge new relationships with the 119th Congress and to reinforce crucial relationships with congressional allies developed over the years.

Consider a Career in Music

In addition to advocating for essential funding, The NAMM Foundation’s "Consider a Career in Music" initiative highlights various career paths in the music industry, encouraging students to explore the thousands of career opportunities available to them.

Year-round Engagement

overhead photo of college students and namm members networking

NAMM and The NAMM Foundation maintain our commitment to music education year-round, with programs, such as Best Communities for Music Education and Networking With the Pros, and through supporting legislation that furthers the industry’s goals.

The NAMM Show

At The 2025 NAMM Show, music education will be highlighted through a series of sessions designed to equip educators with tools, resources and strategies for enhancing music programs in schools. Sessions will cover a range of topics, including music technology integration, best practices for ensemble teaching and approaches to foster student engagement. And as part of this year’s pre-exhibit sessions, members are invited to attend a special music education advocacy workshop titled, “Harmonizing Futures: How to Advocate for Music Education,” featuring prominent experts with strategies for grassroots engagement.

These sessions provide NAMM members, partner organizations, educators and students with invaluable insights and opportunities for professional development, reflecting NAMM's commitment to supporting music education at all levels.

Important Dates

December 20, 2024: Continuing Resolution that provides budget authority for federal agencies expires, but it is expected that another will be passed and carry through Q1.
January 21-25, 2025: The NAMM Show!
February 28, 2025: Application deadline for Best Communities for Music Education
March 2025: Music in Our Schools Month
April 2025: Stand Up 4 Music in Sacramento, CA
May 5-8, 2025: NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In