On May 7, the Marriott Marquis in the heart of Times Square served as the perfect backdrop for the vibrant celebration of music, education, and community as industry leaders, artists, educators, and supporters gathered for the annual Music Will Benefit.
The event brought together many across the music industry for an evening centered around the organization’s mission of empowering students through modern, multi-genre music education. Among the evening’s honorees was T Bone Burnett, the 13-time Grammy Award-winning producer, artist, and hip-hop pioneer, Master P who was recognized with a heartfelt performance from his daughter Cymphonique. Bruce Eskowitz was also honored with the inaugural Music Icon Award, presented by Coran Capshaw. The celebration included an appearance from Nile Rodgers, along with a heartfelt congratulatory video message from Lionel Richie.
The evening successfully raised more than $1 million in support of Music Will’s continued efforts to expand access to music education in public schools nationwide. During his tribute video honoring Eskowitz, Lionel Richie reflected on the organization’s impact, sharing that “Music Will helps us remember why music matters in the first place.” With the support generated through this year’s fundraising efforts and celebrity partnerships, Music Will continues moving toward its long-term vision of reaching 11 million students and engaging 40,000 music educators by 2030. The organization also announced plans to further expand programming in multiple markets next school year in celebration of this year’s honorees.
Throughout the evening, conversations centered around the transformative impact music education can have on young people across the country. Educators, nonprofit leaders, and musicians spoke passionately about access, creativity, and the importance of ensuring students have opportunities to express themselves through music regardless of their background or school district resources. During the live auction, a generous $23,000 contribution toward a Nashville/Gibson trip was immediately matched, underscoring the audience’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young musicians and preserving arts education, per Shorefire Media.
Inside the ballroom, the production balanced sophistication with warmth. Soft lighting, live musical interludes, and heartfelt speeches created a dynamic flow that kept the room engaged from beginning to end. The Marriott Marquis served as the perfect backdrop for the occasion, with its expansive event space overlooking the constant motion of Times Square below. Even in the middle of Manhattan’s busiest district, the event managed to feel intimate.
One of the strongest aspects of the night was how naturally the entertainment blended with the mission itself. Live performances throughout the evening reminded attendees exactly why programs like Music Will matter. Guests and performers alike showcased the emotional and unifying power of music in ways that resonated far beyond a typical gala performance. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, standing ovations, and visible emotion during several moments throughout the program.
As the night continued, it became increasingly clear that the Music Will Benefit was about far more than fundraising. It was a reflection of how deeply music can shape identity, confidence, and community. From the lively red carpet arrivals to the heartfelt moments inside the ballroom, the event highlighted the enduring importance of supporting arts education for future generations.
The benefit was presented by Gregory & Carolyn Hall, produced by Michael Matuza and MBM Entertainment, and co-chaired by Jonathan Shank (CEO, Terrapin Station Entertainment, a joint venture with Sony Music), and Gregory Hall (Managing Director and Head of U.S. Global Wealth Management, Pimco). In a city filled with high-profile events every week, the Music Will Benefit stood out because of its sincerity. It wasn’t simply another gala in Manhattan, it was a reminder of music’s ability to bring people together for something meaningful.
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