Heid Music gave a $33,000 boost to Wisconsin school music programs in March with its annual Big 10+ Contest. Each March, Heid Music proudly celebrates Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), a national observance led for more than 40 years by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) to raise awareness about the importance of music education for every child and to reinforce that schools are where all students should have access to high-quality music programs.
The Big 10+ Contest awarded musical prizes valued at more than $33,000 to 22 music programs statewide. The prize pool included a wide range of instruments, classroom equipment, accessories, printed materials, and educational experiences, ensuring multiple schools benefit from the initiative.
Entrants representing 70 school programs statewide submitted photos, or shared them using #MusicInOurSchools and #Big10Plus, showing what music education meant to them and their school. They then solicited votes for their photos. The top 22 vote-getting school programs are:
“We are thrilled with the success of this year’s Big 10+ Contest and are extremely proud to be able to support so many school music programs across Wisconsin and Upper Michigan,” said DeDe Heid, president of Heid Music. “The entire Heid Music team thanks everyone who participated in our giveaway and to our amazing vendors who donated to support music in our schools. Additionally, this impact would not be possible without the dedication and passion of music educators, whose commitment inspires and guides students every day."
Music education continues to play a vital role in shaping well-rounded students and strong communities. Beyond performance, it fosters creativity, discipline, collaboration, and confidence—skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Events like this not only celebrate the achievements of student musicians but also reinforce the importance of ensuring every student has access to meaningful music education opportunities. Continued support from schools, families, and communities helps sustain these programs and the lasting impact they have on future generations.
This year’s Big 10+ Giveaway was made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of our dedicated music partners, including Trevor James, Jupiter (KHS America), Connolly Music, Maple Leaf Strings, Pearl, Fender, Conn-Selmer, Gator Cases, On-Stage, Hal Leonard, Kala Brand Music Co., Yamaha, Alfred Music, Backun Musical Services, D’Addario, Ibanez, Amahi Ukuleles, Vandoren, Alvarez Guitars, Roland, and FASTSIGNS.
For more information, including a full list of contest winners, available prizes, and this year’s new Honor Roll, recognizing every participating program with a courtesy gift and Heid Music gift card, visit HeidMusic.com/Big10Plus.
About Heid Music
Founded in 1948, Heid Music is a family-owned music retailer dedicated to strengthening music education and supporting musicians in the communities it serves. With five Wisconsin locations in Appleton, Green Bay, Madison, Oshkosh, and Stevens Point, Heid Music partners with schools, educators, and arts organizations to provide instruments, rentals, repairs, and educational resources. Through community initiatives, educational partnerships, and advocacy efforts, Heid Music invests in music educators and students while also supporting local musicians and performances. Guided by the belief that music is essential to a well-rounded education, Heid Music works to ensure music remains accessible and impactful for musicians of all ages. To stay involved in all-things Heid Music, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,YouTube, Tik Tok, and LinkedIn, or visit HeidMusic.com.