Music & Arts Supports New Music Education Advocacy Partner, AMP

FREDERICK, MD--(Marketwire - Mar 7, 2012) - Music & Arts, the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer and music lesson provider in the country, announces a new partnership with AMP - The Association of Music Parents. Continuing its tradition of advocating for music education in schools, Music & Arts will support the parents of aspiring musicians as they ensure that music remains an integral part of the American education system.

"As school districts nationwide continue belt-tightening measures to cope with budget shortfalls, the value of the arts is being placed under increased scrutiny," said L. Scott McCormick, Founder of AMP. "With that in mind, Music & Arts and AMP is a natural collaboration. We have a shared commitment to keeping music education as a fundamental element in our children's curriculum."

AMP, a non-profit organization, developed as a grassroots movement designed to rally parents of school-aged students, with the support of teachers and the music industry. By educating parents, AMP looks to preserve the creativity, innovation and humanity that students receive from music.

This partnership aligns with Music & Arts' ongoing efforts to support music education and bolster music performance and involvement in local communities. This principle also led Music & Arts to found Pass the Music On!, a non-profit partnership with Music 4 More which collects and refurbishes donated, used instruments and redistributes them to in-need school children.

"Music & Arts remains energized by its dedication to serving our communities through this partnership with AMP," said Kenny O'Brien, Music & Arts President. "Supporting music in our communities has been a central tenet since Music & Arts' beginnings as a neighborhood music store."

About Music & Arts
Music & Arts has served students, teachers, and families through retail stores and school representatives since 1952. Based in Frederick, MD, the company specializes in sales and rentals of music instruments, instrument repairs, and music lessons- especially for the beginning and student musician. Music & Arts now has over 100 retail locations across 20 states.

About The National Association of Music Parents
AMP, The National Association of Music Parents, has a mission to build a grassroots national movement that brings together all stakeholders of music education to defend the interests of our students and ensure that music and the arts remain an integral discipline within the core education system in America.