About Music Matters Ohio

Music Matters Ohio is a new statewide initiative designed to expand access to music education by placing musical instruments directly into the hands of Ohio students—through their schools and music teachers.

Music education is a proven contributor to student success, supporting academic achievement, creativity, and engagement. By helping connect unused instruments with students who need them, Music Matters Ohio strengthens schools, families, and communities—without adding burden to educators or school systems.

This spring, Music Matters Ohio will conduct a coordinated, statewide instrument drive, culminating on Saturday, May 30, with the goal of serving students in communities across urban, suburban, and rural Ohio. The initiative is supported by local leaders and volunteers in every region, ensuring community ownership while maintaining statewide coordination.

Those without an instrument to donate can help by making a monetary donation (Donate Here).

Music Matters Ohio is a partnership of the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education, the Ohio Foundation for Music Education, Ohio Music Education Association, the Ohio Arts Council, and thousands of Ohio teachers, community leaders, and volunteers across the state.