Music In Our Schools Month (MIOSM) is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of music education for all children and reminding our communities that school is where every child should have access to music. MIOSM provides an opportunity for music educators to highlight their programs, connect with their schools and communities, and showcase the lasting impact music education has on students of all ages.
As MIOSM celebrates its 41st year, we continue to embrace the theme “United Through Music.” Music transcends language and cultural barriers, serving as a universal form of communication that brings people together through shared experiences, emotions, and stories.
North Carolina continues to lead in music advocacy and celebration. Through partnerships with arts organizations, education leaders, and state agencies, we work to ensure music education remains accessible, visible, and celebrated across our state.
North Carolina music educators also understand the healing and unifying power of music. Through challenging times, including the COVID years and major hurricanes impacting our state, music and the arts have helped communities rebuild, reconnect, and support one another.
In 2026, North Carolina MIOSM efforts are centered on strengthening connections with collegiate music education members and expanding advocacy efforts across the state.
By partnering more intentionally with collegiate chapters, we aim to:
- Support future music educators
- Build leadership and advocacy skills early in careers
- Strengthen connections between K–12 and higher education music communities
Advocacy remains a major focus as we continue working to elevate the visibility and importance of music education with legislators, community leaders, administrators, and the public.
We will continue working alongside partners at NCDPI, state arts leaders, and the North Carolina Music Office to support MIOSM performances and advocacy events throughout the month of March.
Luke Combs Pays Tribute to His Music Teachers
Celebrate Music In Our Schools Month with a powerful message from award-winning country music star and North Carolina native, Luke Combs! In this exclusive video for NCMEA, Luke shares his personal journey and speaks passionately about the vital role music education played in shaping his life and career. Luke’s story serves as a reminder of how dedicated teachers and accessible programs empower students to find their voice. Watch now to be inspired and join us in advocating for the next generation of North Carolina musicians!
Statewide MIOSM Performances
Throughout March, the NCDPI Office of Teaching and Learning Arts Education Team will host in-person and livestreamed performances and virtual arts showcases celebrating Arts in Our Schools Month. All viewings are from 11:30-12 and are free to attend or watch on the https://youtube.com/ncpublicschools channel.
Performances:
- March 3 — Northwest Guilford Middle School Orchestra
- March 5 — NC Arts Council Poetry Out Loud Winners
- March 10 — Durham School of the Arts Jazz Artistry Combo
- March 12 — Scotland County Elementary Honors Chorus
- March 17 — Lucama Elementary School Singing Cardinals
- March 19 — Holly Springs High School Colla Voce
- March 24 — GW Carver A+ Elementary Choir
- March 26 — Southern Lee High School Marching Band
Join the MIOSM Celebration Across North Carolina
Throughout March, the MIOSM Committee will take over the NCMEA Instagram every Monday. Follow & share: @NCMEA
MIOSM Week of Giving & Spirit Week: March 16 – March 20
Music educators, students, and communities across North Carolina are invited to participate in our Week of Giving and MIOSM Spirit Week as we celebrate the impact of music education together. More details and participation ideas will be shared with North Carolina music educators prior to March.
Use the official MIOSM hashtags when posting your events and celebrations:
#UnitedThroughMusic
#MIOSM
National MIOSM Resources
NAfME provides resources to support MIOSM participation, including:
- Lesson plans
- Advocacy materials and proclamation templates
- Activity ideas and social media toolkits
Visit the NAfME MIOSM resource page for more information.