#Japan #Shibuya #Fender® #Fender® Youth Music Program #School Music Clubs

Fender® Youth Music Program 2026

Fender® Musical Instruments Corporation, a prominent name in the music industry, has announced the start of its second round of the Fender® Youth Music Program on July 9, 2026. This initiative aims to support music clubs in middle and high schools across Japan, fostering a love for music and helping students grow in their musical endeavors.

Program Overview

The Fender® Youth Music Program seeks to provide vital assistance to light music clubs in schools throughout Japan. Selected schools will receive free instruments such as electric guitars, bass guitars, amplifiers, and various accessories. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in special music lessons conducted by professional artists.

Through this program, Fender intends to create an environment where children can enjoy playing instruments and engaging in band activities. The ultimate goal is to nurture self-expression, cooperation, and creativity among students, while also promoting the development of light music culture and fostering a sustainable educational music environment.

Additionally, Fender collaborates with the National School Light Music Association, a non-profit organization that supports light music clubs. This partnership ensures that the program is responsive to the actual needs of schools, enhancing the effectiveness and equity of the charity activities.

Support Offered

1. Provision of Instruments: Schools can receive a range of musical equipment, including approximately 10 instruments like electric guitars, electric and acoustic basses, amplifiers, portable amplifiers for practice, cables, straps, picks, and stands. The specific components will be determined based on schools' requests.

2. Special Music Lessons: Participating schools will benefit from exclusive music lessons conducted by artists selected by Fender, giving students direct access to professional guidance.

Previous Initiatives

In the inaugural year of the Fender® Youth Music Program in 2025, schools such as Wakayama Prefectural Wakayama High School and Otaru Fisheries High School in Hokkaido received support from Fender. These institutions were gifted instruments and equipment, along with personalized music lessons from renowned singer-songwriters.

Students at Wakayama High School enjoyed a session with artist Otoha, while Otaru Fisheries High School welcomed artist Fumino. Not only did students get to see performances up close, but they also engaged in discussions about the joys of music, the importance of self-expression, and the excitement of band activities.

Feedback indicated that the program revitalized light music activities within these schools, with an increase in student interaction with musical instruments. A documentary capturing these events is available on Fender's official YouTube channel.

Application Process

Schools looking to apply for the Fender® Youth Music Program should do so through the designated application page, filling out the necessary details. Applications must be made at the school level, and submissions must be completed by school staff.

• - Application Period: July 9, 2026 - September 4, 2026
• - Application Page URL: Fender Youth Music Program Application

Eligibility Requirements

The program is open to all middle schools, high schools, and special support schools across Japan, including public, national, and private institutions:
1. Schools must be committed to enhancing music education and light music activities.
2. Schools should currently have, or plan to establish, a light music club.
3. Schools must provide responses to all questions related to music education and light music activities in the application.

Selection Process

Fender will select supported schools from those that meet the eligibility criteria. Notifications will be sent to selected schools by the end of September 2026. Please note that schools not chosen will not receive individual notifications.

Conclusion

The Fender® Youth Music Program is not just about providing instruments; it’s about nurturing the next generation of musicians. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1946, Fender continues to innovate and inspire, ensuring that all players, from beginners to legends, can express themselves through music. For more details, visit Fender's Commitment to Music Education.