The Namm Foundation and The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus Seek Music Programs for a Recording Residency

By SBO+ Staff

The NAMM Foundation and The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus are gearing up to bring a hands-on and high-tech music-making experience to three school districts with a recording residency on The Lennon Bus. Now through November 18, 2016 school administrators a re invited to highlight their district’s music education achievements by answering the question, “What Makes Music Education Great in My School District?” via an online entry form and by involving their students in the creation of a one-minute video submission for a chance at the residency.

“The residency celebrates the most exemplary schools and school districts that hold music and music education as a vital part of their curriculum,” shares Mary Luehrsen, Executive Director of The NAMM Foundation. “Students benefit from the opportunity to write and produce music in a professional recording setting thereby furthering their experience, and the community at large with the recognition as champions for music education.”

Over a period of two days, students will have the chance to showcase their musical talents by writing, recording and producing an original song, and documenting their music making experience in the form of a music video while on The Lennon Bus: a state-of-the-art, mobile recording and production studio. On the second day, the school and district will come together to demonstrate their support for music education with a SupportMusic Community Forum and rally. Led by The NAMM Foundation, the Forum will share the successes and challenges in music education, and recognize the many accomplishments of music education within the district. The day will conclude with a community celebration and tours of The Lennon Bus.

From now until the November 18 deadline, eligible schools and school districts in the continental U.S. are invited to create their submissions online. A link to the posted video submission must be included in the online application. Award recipients will be announced in December 2016.

Since 2013, The NAMM Foundation has hosted 13 Lennon Bus residencies in communities throughout the U.S. Past videos of district submissions, SupportMusic Community Forums and music videos of songs created from residencies can be viewed on The NAMM Foundation YouTube channel.

“As we approach our 20th year, it’s easy to reflect on what an amazing partner The NAMM Foundation has been for The Lennon Bus. Their commitment, enthusiasm and support for the importance of the mission is nearly unparalleled,” says Brian Rothschild, co-founder and executive director of The Lennon Bus. “Working with the organization on this incredible program has truly had an extremely positive impact on the schools we visit and we look forward to another successful residency tour.”