The third annual “Battle of the Bands” campaign from DoSomething.org and the VH1 Save The Music Foundation has begun. The campaign, aimed at mobilizing young people, is an advocate for music education. It runs from March 1st through April 26th and is being supported by award-winning singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson who filmed a PSA for the campaign.
“Battle of the Bands” is a fun way that encourages teens to participate by submitting music videos about the importance of music education. They can also rewrite the lyrics of a favorite song for the contest. 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. By doing this they ensure the youth voice has a seat at the table.
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.
It is not secret that music and art programs are suffering during tough economic times. Schools are having to cut the programs despite facts that students who 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.
These programs need more advocates to make sure they have their place in schools. Dosomething.org and VH1 Save The Music Foundation’s Battle for the Bands, encourages students to become informed, proactive arts advocates in their communities.
In 2011, the campaign had high numbers with over 20,00 teens in the advocacy effort. This year, the program is hoping to build on that success and get even more students involved.
“Through our partnership with DoSomething.org, the “Battle for the Bands” campaign gives a voice to the individuals that 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, who is an advocate for the program filmed her PSA to help bring more attention to the campaign. Her PSA 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.”