From Classrooms to Stages: Toyota and Music Will Nurture Young Artists

In an exciting development for music education, Toyota has made a significant contribution of $75,000 to support Music Will, the largest nonprofit music education program in the United States. This initiative, known as Driving Music Forward, aims to empower young artists and promote community engagement through music. The partnership provides students with real-world experiences and opportunities that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The power of music to inspire creativity and build self-confidence cannot be underestimated. According to Paul Doleshal, Toyota's General Manager of Motorsport and Sponsorships, music serves as a vital educational tool that fosters community involvement. By partnering with Music Will, Toyota creates a synergy between purposeful narratives and tangible actions, helping students find pathways to growth and success in their artistic endeavors.

Throughout the year, students participating in Music Will's programs have had the chance to perform at some of the biggest music festivals across the country. They took the stage at events such as the Dreams Music Festival in Chicago, the Roots Picnic in Philadelphia, Lollapalooza in Chicago, and Head In The Clouds in Los Angeles. These performances provided invaluable exposure to live audiences and an unforgettable experience of being part of nationally recognized music festivals.

The $75,000 donation from Toyota plays a crucial role in facilitating music education within the communities that Music Will serves. It ensures students have access to the necessary instruments, resources, and opportunities to hone their talents. Toyota's collaboration with Music Will goes beyond providing financial support; it aims to create meaningful experiences that inspire students to envision their potential through music.

Janice Polizzotto, the General Manager of Growth at Music Will, emphasized the profound impact that Toyota’s continued commitment has had on modern music programs in public schools. By merging financial support with extraordinary opportunities to participate in real festivals, they empower students to express themselves creatively and confidently. This initiative demonstrates to the youth that their passion and talents truly matter.

Toyota's efforts to bridge the gap between education and opportunity align with its broader commitment to creating a positive community impact. Through programs like these, the company is dedicated to empowering future generations and promoting meaningful connections through shared experiences.

About Toyota

Toyota has been an integral part of the North American cultural landscape for nearly 70 years, with a dedication to fostering sustainable mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands, alongside its nearly 1,800 dealerships. Employing around 64,000 people across North America, Toyota has contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 50 million cars and trucks in its 14 manufacturing plants. The company's commitment to innovation continues with the assembly of batteries for electrified vehicles at its plant in North Carolina, which began in 2025.

About Music Will

Music Will's mission is to transform lives by redefining music education. With an innovative curriculum focused on modern band techniques, the organization aims to enhance student involvement in school music programs while fostering long-term growth academically, socially, and emotionally. Since its inception in 2002, Music Will has provided training, resources, and instruments to over 6,000 schools across all 50 states, reaching more than 1.8 million students. Originally starting in a single classroom in East Palo Alto, California, the program has evolved into a national movement, now operating in over 1,000 school districts. Looking ahead, Music Will aims to reach 11 million students annually by 2030 through its scaling programs.

For more information about Toyota, please visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Media Contacts:
Sam Mahoney
Toyota Motor North America
Phone: 980-900-8573
Email: [email protected]

Delia López Conill
For Toyota
Phone: 424-239-4078
Email: [email protected]