On Tuesday, Nov. 13th, Save The Music  (STM) brought together Nashville’s music community for its 6th annual “Hometown to Hometown” event, raising over $250,000 to support music education programs in under-resourced public high schools. Co-hosted by Leslie Fram and Dasha, the evening was filled with incredible performances, heartfelt speeches, and a shared commitment to ensuring that more students, schools, and communities have access to music education.

Old Dominion, Lee Ann Womack, and mtheory’s Cameo Carlson were honored as the 2025 “Champions of the Year” for their contributions to the music industry and their commitment to supporting the next generation of creators through music education.

I’ve known for years that getting a musical instrument in the hands of a child who otherwise couldn’t afford one can be life-changing. However, today, there is more to it. There is a technological component to creating music/film/art that can be just as rewarding as singing or playing an instrument.

Fram concurred, “A couple of years ago, Trisha Yearwood and I went to White’s Creek High School. We saw firsthand the impact of these technical grants. I mean, the high school students were making movie trailers. [These grants] seriously change lives when you know what can happen.”

Deputy Executive Director of STM Danielle Zalaznick stated, “Save the Music’s mission is to make sure that every student can make music during the school day, regardless of where they live or their financial circumstances. I am thrilled to be here tonight for the sixth annual Hometown to Hometown event, honoring three incredible honorees.”

She continued, “None of this would have happened if it weren’t for a cup of coffee with my dear friend Ross Copperman over seven years ago, where we talked about the importance of bringing music technology and music studios to high schools across the country. As a result of that conversation, we have raised over a million dollars to date. We have delivered 18 music technology grants to high schools here in Nashville and all of our honorees’ hometowns.”

Since that time, STM has impacted thousands of students who are making music, DJing, podcasting, mixing songs, and so much more. With these tech labs and studios, kids realize that they can actually create music, not just listen to it.

Event highlights included:

-Dasha opened the night with a powerhouse performance of her hit song “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’),” before seamlessly transitioning into her co-hosting duties.

-Co-hosts Leslie Fram and Dasha welcomed guests with reflections on the transformative power of music education and its impact across communities.

-Mickey Guyton delivered a breathtaking performance of “Better Than You Left Me” on behalf of “Champion of the Year,” Cameo Carlson. Carlson then joined Leslie Fram on stage for an intimate conversation about her career journey and advocacy for artists before being presented with her award by esteemed music industry professional Rachel Whitney.

-Lee Ann Womack delivered soulful back-to-back performances of “A Little Past Little Rock” and “I Hope You Dance,” earning the night’s first standing ovation. Lee Ann reminded the audience of the lifelong impact that access to music can make on a young person’s path. Renowned songwriter Bernie Taupin then presented Womack with her award. 

-Principal Franklin and Music teacher, Mr. Hanna from Johnson Alternative Learning Center, accompanied Janie, a senior student learning podcasting through the Save The Music J Dilla Music Technology grant. All delivered moving speeches describing how the Save The Music grant has transformed the school. 

-Pink Beard joined Dasha and Leslie Fram on the stage to deliver a powerful call-to-action, motivating the crowd to raise thousands of dollars in the room.

-Old Dominion brought the evening to a powerful close, performing fan favorites “One Man Band” and “Goodnight Music City” -reflecting on the influences, experiences, and opportunities that first sparked their love of music, earning a standing ovation. Taylor Lindsey, SVP, A&R at Sony Music Nashville, presented the band with their “Champion of the Year” award, closing out the evening.

Proceeds raised from the event will go toward developing music technology programs in Nashville as well as the honorees’ respective hometowns — Dallas, TX (Womack) and Washington, D.C. (Old Dominion).

Save the Music is helping to create the next generation of songwriters, producers, engineers, and artists by empowering the creators and dreamers.

You can help STM power 100 new classrooms this school year with a tax-deductible donation.

Bethany Bowman is a freelance entertainment writer. You can follow her on her blog, Facebook, Instagram, and X.