DoSomething.org and the VH1 Save The Music Foundation have teamed up for the third annual “Battle for the Bands” campaign aimed at mobilizing young people to advocate for music education.
The campaign will run from March 1 through April 26th, 2012 and is supported by award-winning singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson, who filmed a PSA for the campaign that premiered on pop music destination Idolator.com.
"Battle for the Bands" encourages teens to participate by submitting music videos about the importance of music education or rewriting the lyrics of a favorite classic or pop song. DoSomething.org, in partnership with the VH1 Save The Music Foundation, will create a mash-up of the best videos to present to representatives on Capitol Hill, in Washington DC, ensuring the youth voice has a seat at the table.
Music programs are fighting for survival during these challenging economic times. Despite the proven fact that students who participate in music programs have better test scores, lower drug-use rates, lower drop-out rates, more success in college, and more involvement in their communities, music and arts education programs are at risk. DoSomething.org and the VH1 Save The Music Foundation’s Battle for the Bands, encourages students to become informed, proactive arts advocates in their communities.
In 2011, the program engaged over 20,000 teens in advocacy efforts. The 2012 program hopes to build on this success and get even more students involved in the national video contest.
"Through our partnership with DoSomething.org, the “Battle for the Bands” campaign gives a voice to the individuals music education affects directly," said Paul Cothran, Executive Director of the VH1 Save the Music Foundation. “It is always thrilling to see the talent submitted each year and watch young people rally around such an important cause. With their help we will work towards ensuring that no child be deprived of access to a complete education that includes music.”
Clarkson filmed a Public Service Announcement (PSA) that launched during the live telecast of VH1’s Pepsi Fan Jam concert this month and will air on Channel One News, VH1 and Palladia. The video can be seen here.
"Music has obviously had a huge impact on my life," says Kelly Clarkson. “Every kid should have the opportunity to pick up an instrument in their school, no matter where they live. Music education should be as commonplace as math and science classes.”
“It’s safe to say that a world without music would be a pretty bland and miserable existence,” said DoSomething.org campaign manager Greg Thomas. “Teens will be providing the future soundtrack to our lives, and it’s important to give them the tools to express themselves.”
A panel of expert and celebrity judges will evaluate the video and project entries based on creativity, strength of argument, use of social media, and overall participation.
The Grand Prize video will receive up to $5,000 in grant funding for their school music program. Other prizes include a Vh1 produced Pop Up Video to air on Vh1.com, concert tickets , an acoustic guitar and up to $10,000 in scholarships. For more information, visit www.dosomething.org/battle.
