About Us

TAKE NOTE COLORADO is a statewide community initiative to provide access to musical instruments and instruction to every K‑12 student in Colorado. Many students lack access to music instruction due to financial barriers or racial and social inequities in music education. We aim to create access and equity by raising funds, connecting communities to music resources, and raising awareness of the importance of student-centered and culturally responsive music instruction. We support individuals and organizations that target underserved communities in both rural and urban areas. Take Note Colorado exists in recognition that music is a vital part of a well-rounded, vibrant education.

Take Note Colorado was launched in January 2017 under the leadership of Senator John Hickenlooper (then Colorado Governor) and Isaac Slade of the Fray, who share the belief that we can all play a role in bringing music into the lives of students. Hickenlooper and Slade were joined by musicians, philanthropists, music industry leaders, government representatives, community and nonprofit leaders to help realize this vision. Since then, Take Note has gained the support of thousands of Coloradans who believe in the power of music to change lives and drive positive social change.

Since 2017, Take Note Colorado has invested more than $1 million in music education to reach Colorado youth, via partnerships and the 2020-2022 Grant Program. Since 2023, new partnership have been developed with Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado and Colorado State University (CSU) to increase the reach and impact of the Take Note’s funding. Learn more here.

Isaac Slade, formerly with The Fray, has resumed a leadership role in 2024, as President and Board Chair, with the goal of leading the 10-year initiative across the “finish line” to provide all youth (Grades K‑12) in Colorado access to music instruments and instruction by the end of 2027.

Take Note Colorado is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Federal tax ID #82-0809862.

Download and read our 2017-2019 Founders Report here.

Download and read our 2021-2022 Take Note Brochure here.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Jayne Buck, Administrative Manager for Take Note Colorado at info@takenotecolorado.org.