Avril Lavigne, Chris Stapleton, Pete Wentz First Artist Ambassadors For Fender Play Foundation

Fender Play Foundation

Famed guitar manufacturer FENDER has formed the FENDER PLAY FOUNDATION, a non-profit designed to provide resources and music education opportunities to young people. Among the initial artist ambassadors are AVRIL LAVIGNE, CHRIS STAPLETON, BRENDON URIE of PANIC! AT THE DISCO, PETE WENTZ, ASHLEY McBRYDE and GREEN DAY's MIKE DIRNT. 

Artist ambassadors will help inspire young people via FOUNDATION initiatives including surprise instrument drops and meet-and-greets, donating signed gear and memorabilia for auction, appearing at galas and helping guide the FOUNDATION’s overall direction. FENDER will support artist ambassador charities that align with the foundation’s mission as well as charities “near and dear” to artists, including the BOYS & GIRLS CLUB-affiliated non-profit NOTES FOR NOTES.

Commented FENDER CEO ANDY MOONEY, “LEO FENDER believed that all artists are angels and his job was to give them wings to fly. We view the FENDER PLAY FOUNDATION as an important vehicle to equip, educate and inspire the next generation of artists. Every child deserves access to music education opportunities and tools that give them ‘wings to fly.’ As an avid player, I can attest to the many benefits that come with playing an instrument and how the power of music can enrich your life.”

Added CHRIS STAPLETON, “When I was a kid, I picked up a guitar and found a whole new world at my fingertips. I’m proud to partner with the FENDER PLAY FOUNDATION  to help kids from all walks of life find a whole new world of their own.”

Said AVRIL LAVIGNE, “FENDER has been so supportive of the AVRIL LAVIGNE FOUNDATION since its inception, so I was honored when they asked me to be part of the launch of their own charitable efforts. Providing instruments to schools, camps and others who don’t have access to music on a daily basis is both necessary and inspiring, and I’m looking forward to working alongside my fellow Artist Advisors to deliver what is sure to be a lifetime of exciting memories!”

Said BRANDON URIE, “I’m excited to team up with the FENDER PLAY FOUNDATION  to support the next generation of shredders. Growing up in VEGAS, my music mentors and education were such a huge influence on my life, I hope through partnering with FENDER, that I can help do the same for young musicians!”

Over the next three years, the FENDER PLAY FOUNDATION plans to raise $3 million for educational institutions and organizations via equipment donations, personalized instruction and artist experiences, with FMIC’s initial $1 million donation to be used to expand further fundraising efforts. Initial support will be provided to music education programs in L.A., NASHVILLE and SCOTTSDALE, AZ, where FENDER has offices, with plans to expand to more cities next year. Educational institutions and organizations will also have the opportunity to apply for grants.

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