Be a key player in our symphony of opportunity

Play It Forward!® Instrument Drive

Play It Forward!® Cleveland is the instrument drive component of our Inspiration Through Music program, which provides free music education to 3rd-12th grade youth in Cleveland. By donating new or gently used instruments, you directly support our mission to ensure every participant has the tools they need to explore and develop their musical talents.

This free program is open to Cleveland residents or CMSD students, offering lessons in guitar, percussion, keyboard & voice, and violin. There are no costs or prior experience required to participate. We provide all necessary resources, including instruments, ensuring that financial constraints don’t limit any participant’s ability to join and grow in the program.

We are in need of the following instruments:

  • Acoustic Guitars

  • Violins

  • Keyboards (not pianos)

  • Drums

COLLECTION DATES

MAY 24, 2025 | 4 PM - 6 PM

Trinity Cathedral Episcopal Church

(2230 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115)

Our final showcase of our Inspiration Through Music program will be taking place at the same time. Feel free to donate your instrument and stay to support our youth!

JUNE 28, 2025 | 10 AM - 2 PM

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame - Fam Jam

(1100 E 9th St., Cleveland, OH 44114)

The Fam Jam will take place outdoors at the front pavilion, weather permitting, with performances by students from the summer camp.

JULY 9, 2025 | 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Wade Oval Wednesday

(10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106)

MAY 24 - JULY 9, 2025 | 9 AM - 5 PM

Center for Arts-Inspired Learning Office

10917 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106)

Donations can be dropped off at our office every Tuesday-Friday during this date range.

Donating your instrument is not just giving away a piece of equipment—it’s passing on a legacy of creativity, opportunity, and community. Each donation helps provide Cleveland youth with access to music education, enabling them to explore their talents and build confidence.

At the collection events listed above, you’ll have the opportunity to share the story behind your instrument—what memories does it carry? How has it impacted your life?

While it’s not required, we’d love for you to record a personal story when you come to donate your instrument(s).

The stories shared will help showcase the powerful impact of music and how the legacy will continue through the program.

Stories & Legacy

At the collection events, we’ll also have jam sessions with local teaching artists. You can join in with your instrument, or simply watch and listen as we bring donated instruments to life! These sessions are about more than just music—they’re a chance to connect with the community.

You’ll get to see firsthand how your donation is making an impact as the next generation of musicians hones their craft.

Jam Sessions with Teaching Artists

Share the Music. Share the Legacy.

Your donations help keep the Play It Forward!® Cleveland music program thriving, offering free music lessons to local youth and providing opportunities for creativity and self-expression. Thank you for making a difference and for passing on the legacy of music.

DON'T HAVE AN INSTRUMENT TO DONATE?

If you do not have an instrument to donate, don't worry! If you still want to support this program, we will also be accepting monetary donations to go towards repairs, supplies, and the purchase of instruments.

Clicking on the button below will take you to our online giving page. Once there, be sure to select the option of Play It Forward!® Cleveland from the drop-down menu under the section titled "Please direct my support".