Honoring The Women Who Drive Our Mission Forward
Women have long been at the heart of music history—from composers like Clara Schumann and Hildegard von Bingen to contemporary icons like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. Yet, access to opportunities in music has not always been equal. That’s why music education advocacy plays a critical role in opening doors for young women to pursue their passions and develop their talents.
Today, many music education nonprofits and charities are stepping up to support the next generation of female musicians. Through targeted grants, these organizations provide essential resources for music teachers, which often mean the difference between a program surviving or thriving.
Grants for school music programs help ensure students—especially girls—have access to instruments, instructors, and technology. These funds are vital in communities where arts budgets are limited. In particular, charities for music educationwork to ensure that gender and economic disparities don’t stand in the way of access.
By helping close these gaps, these initiatives promote female empowerment in the music industry and create lasting pathways for students to explore their potential.
Music supporters can also make a difference. Whether through a music fundraiser, exploring music fundraising ideas, or a direct music donation, there are many ways to donate to music education. Each fundraiser for music program and individual gift strengthens the movement.
From grassroots advocacy music efforts to national music education foundations, the future of Women in Music depends on consistent, inclusive support. With the help of music educational grants, we can ensure every young woman has the chance to find her voice—and be heard.
The Power of Women in the Music Industry
Women in Music continue to shape the music industry across leadership, education, performance, and advocacy. At Save The Music, we are proud to support and work alongside women who bring their passion and purpose to every part of the music ecosystem. This year’s featured voices—three influential women in our music education network—show us what’s possible when women lead. and a dedicated educator—show us what’s possible when women lead.This year’s featured voices—three influential women in our music education network—show us what’s possible when women lead.
Empowering Women. Transforming Music.
Our Artist Ambassador: Brittney Spencer
As part of our Women in Music Month spotlight, we’re honoring singer-songwriter and rising country artist Brittney Spencer—Save The Music’s 2024 Hometown to Hometown Honoree. Brittney’s music and message have touched audiences nationwide, but her journey began in Baltimore classrooms, lunch tables, and music programs that nurtured her creativity and voice. At last year’s Hometown to Hometown event, she reflected on the power of music education, mentorship, and staying connected to your roots.
Brittney Spencer performing at Save The Music’s 5th Annual Hometown to Hometown Event in Nashville.
Why do you believe it’s so important to save the music—especially in schools?
“I think it’s important to save the music because you never know what music is saving somebody from. People use music as a tool to get out their emotions, to sort through whatever is going on inside their lives, to be an escape from sometimes really harsh realities.”
You’ve spoken powerfully about the impact of teachers and support systems in your journey. Can you share more about that?
“My college professor Beverly is here tonight—and she’s the kind of educator that sticks with you beyond the classroom. Back in 2020, when I started to get traction in my career, she helped me navigate it all—even bought my dress for my Opry debut.”
“It’s nights like this that remind me I didn’t get here on talent alone. I had a caring, dedicated team—people who really believed in me.”
“Music isn’t just something we do—it’s something that saves us.
That helps us dream bigger. And for kids like me, those dreams
start in the classroom.”
Our Music Educator: Candice Boggerty (aka Dope Candi)
As part of our Women in Music Month spotlight, we sat down with Candice Boggerty—also known as Dope Candi—music producer, DJ, and Save The Music educator at Centennial High School in Compton, CA. We talked about creating inclusive spaces in music tech, helping young women find their voices, and why visibility and mentorship can change everything.
Candice Boggerty inside her audio production classroom at Centennial High School.
What inspired you to become a music educator, and how has your journey evolved over time?
“Music was my safe space growing up—the place where I found my voice, my confidence, and a sense of belonging. That experience inspired me to become a music educator. I wanted to create that same environment for young people, especially those who might not always have access to creative opportunities.”
“Over the years, my purpose has shifted from just teaching music to helping students build real pathways. When students see themselves as producers, creators, and leaders—it’s powerful. My classroom is about more than just music. It’s about showing students they matter, that their stories matter, and that their creativity can take them far.”
Can you share a moment that made you realize the impact you’re making?
“Watching two of my students, Jose and Jeremiah, perform their original music at a major event—that moment changed everything for them. I saw the confidence spark in real time. Another student, who is on the autism spectrum and usually nonverbal, shared his beats with the class. Since then, he’s been one of the most vocal contributors. That’s the power of music education.”
“Music isn’t just about talent or technique. It’s about confidence.
It’s about finding your voice—and knowing it deserves to be
heard.”
Our Board Member: Jen Grady
To celebrate the history and influence of women in music, we sat down with Jen Grady—pianist, lawyer, and Chair of Save The Music’s Board—to talk about choosing music, making bold decisions, and staying true to your passions—even when they lead you in more than one direction.
Jen Grady
What advice would you offer to students—especially young women—who want to pursue music and another passion, whether or not that’s law?
“Looking back on all this, I’ve been very surprised at how well it all fit together, even though at the time it all seemed very confusing. It all seemed like, oh, how can I be focusing this much on music if I might not be doing this as a career? And am I wasting my time?”
“If music is a part of your life and if it’s important to you. Do whatever you can to weave that in….Because it is going to be helpful to you in ways that you probably don’t expect.”
Did majoring in music feel like a bold choice at the time? And how did it shape your path?
“I majored in music, and then I applied to law school and went to law school… though I thought music might not be viewed as relevant to studying law, it’s actually a really solid foundation in logic and math and other things that you need as a foundation in order to do something like study law… I think music was a really helpful part of that application.”
“You can do it. You can make all of these things a part of your life.
I now have a job as a lawyer, I have a family, and Save The Music
is a big part of my life… You just need to make the time for what
you love to. Sometimes it seems impossible… but you really can
do it. And just be flexible with how you approach things.”
Why Representation Matters
When students see females in the music industry leading in classrooms, on stage, and in boardrooms, they see new possibilities for themselves. Representation isn’t just symbolic; it creates real pathways for inclusion, belonging, and ambition. At Save The Music, we believe in showcasing diverse women across our network because their stories, leadership, and creativity fuel the future of music.
Get Involved
Support our mission to create equitable music education for every student. Make a donation, share this story, or host your own fundraiser in support of women and music.