Music in Our Schools Month
Each March, Heid Music proudly celebrates Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), a national observance led for more than 40 years by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) to raise awareness about the importance of music education for every child and to reinforce that schools are where all students should have access to high-quality music programs. As a company rooted in music education since 1948, we believe music is an essential part of a well-rounded education, supporting academic achievement, attendance, social-emotional growth, creativity, and confidence. Music In Our Schools Month® provides an important opportunity to spotlight the incredible work of music educators and to remind families and community leaders that protecting and strengthening school music programs requires ongoing advocacy, especially in a state where arts funding remains critically low. Throughout March and beyond, we stand alongside NAfME and educators across the country in championing equitable access to music education for all students.
Check out Adam Korber, Dr. Matthew Arau, and DeDe Heid on WFRV Channel 5 discussing music education and its importance!
Supporting Wisconsin Teachers and Students
Heid Music is more than an advocate—we're a partner to music educators and students across Wisconsin.
How Heid Music Supports Music Educators
Instrument Repair & Maintenance
Professional services to keep school instruments in top playing condition
Classroom & Program Support
Resources, equipment, and expertise to help programs thrive
Long-Term Partnerships
Trusted relationships with school districts built over generations
"Matt G. is simply the best! He provides fantastic customer service and goes out of his way to help directors get the students everything they need and FAST! I am so grateful for his hard work, his product knowledge, and his dedication. I look forward to working with him for many years to come!"
"Have had Andy H. as a Heid Music rep for a long time and he's the best at what he does! Any issues are cleared up quickly and customer service is second to none!"
"If you’re looking for a music store that has it all (and maybe even a secret stash of musical magic), look no further than Heid Music! The staff here are like musical wizards—super friendly, ridiculously knowledgeable, and able to spot a musical need from a mile away. I recently walked in just to “look” at pianos (yeah, right), and walked out with a beautiful new one. It practically begged me to take it home! The selection is amazing, whether you’re a pro or just figuring out which end of a guitar to strum. I swear, every time I walk in, I either leave with a new instrument or a new music-related obsession. Best part? They won’t judge you for playing “Chopsticks” in the store. The entire staff deserves donuts! Thank you for bringing such joy to my life Heid Music!"
Legacy of Music: Featured Educators
Explore these inspiring stories celebrating music education!
Music Fosters Attendance, Engagement, and Belonging
When students participate in music and arts programs, they show up—literally and figuratively.
Lower Chronic Absenteeism
Students involved in music and arts programs show lower chronic absenteeism rates than non-arts peers.
Connection & Accountability
Music programs help students feel connected, accountable, and engaged with their school community.
Building Belonging
Ensemble-based learning builds belonging—especially important during middle and high school years.
The Research Is Clear: Music Education Works
Music Helps Students Learn
- Enhances fine motor skills
- Strengthens working memory
- Improves abstract and critical thinking
Music Supports Academic Achievement
- Stronger verbal memory and reading skills
- Higher math and algebra performance
- Higher average SAT scores for students with sustained arts participation
Music Builds Skills That Last a Lifetime
- Perseverance and self-discipline
- Collaboration and creativity
- Attentiveness and problem-solving—skills employers consistently value
The Wisconsin Context: Why This Matters Right Now
Wisconsin's Creative Economy
The creative economy—including music and arts—contributes billions in economic value and supports tens of thousands of jobs across Wisconsin.
Funding Challenges
Wisconsin ranks near the bottom nationally in per-capita state arts funding, putting additional pressure on local school districts and communities.
The Risk
During budget shortfalls, arts programs are often first reviewed despite overwhelming evidence of their academic, social, and economic value.
Celebrate Your Music Program with the Big10+ Contest
Join Heid Music this March in celebrating Music In Our Schools Month! Enter the Big10+ Contest by submitting original photos of your music program throughout the month.
Rally your community to vote, and your program could win prizes from Heid Music and our music industry partners. Share with #MusicInOurSchools and #Big10Plus to show your support!
WMEA Capitol Concerts: Celebrating Wisconsin's Music Students
The Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA) is the state's leading voice for music education, providing essential professional development, advocacy, and support for music educators across Wisconsin. As the state affiliate of NAfME, WMEA works tirelessly to ensure that every student has access to high-quality music education.
Congratulations to the outstanding school music groups selected to perform at the Wisconsin State Capitol Rotunda this March! These concerts celebrate Music In Our Schools Month and showcase the exceptional talent of Wisconsin students.
Advocacy Without Politics: How Communities Can Help
Supporting music education doesn't require a political stance—it requires showing up and speaking up for students.
Attend Concerts & Performances
Show students their work matters by being present at school concerts, recitals, and performances.
Engage with School Boards
Attend meetings, ask questions, and share your support for music programs respectfully and constructively.
Support Local Educators
Thank music teachers, volunteer when possible, and advocate for the resources they need.
Share Research & Stories
Use credible research and personal stories to demonstrate the impact of music education on students and communities.
National Resources & Advocacy Tools
Music In Our Schools Month® is led by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). Explore their comprehensive resources to support advocacy and celebration in your community.