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Changing Lives Through Music
Young Musician
About the Young Musician Alliance
The Young Musician Alliance was born from the vision of Erik Gunderson, our Executive Director, who wanted to make a tangible difference in the lives of underserved youth by using music as a tool for growth and empowerment. Supported by a dedicated Board of Directors and Advisory Board consisting of teachers, musicians, and local music business owners, we work tirelessly to make musical education accessible to all children, especially those in need.
Located in Arvada, Colorado, our work extends across the nation as we connect students with the resources and mentors they need to succeed.
Transforming Lives, Inspiring Futures
Young Musician
Our Mission and Vision
We are a group of dedicated teachers, musicians, and music business owners working together to help kids achieve their musical goals. Our mission is simple: to empower underserved youth by providing access to musical instruments, education, and mentorship. Through this, we aim to foster a love of music, build confidence, and create a supportive community where young musicians can thrive.
Erik Gunderson – Executive Director & Founder
Erik Gunderson is the heart and vision behind the Young Musician Alliance. A lifelong musician and community advocate, Erik has dedicated his career to empowering youth through the transformative power of music. His belief that every child deserves access to instruments, education, and mentorship — regardless of background — drives the organization’s mission forward.
Under his leadership, the Alliance has grown into a thriving network of teachers, musicians, and local partners working together to support young talent. Erik’s passion for community engagement and music education continues to inspire students and volunteers alike, creating opportunities for growth, creativity, and confidence. Through his guidance, the Young Musician Alliance is helping shape the next generation of artists, leaders, and dreamers.
We Change Your Life & World
Young Musician
Charity With Difference
Get Inspire And Help
Join us in making a difference through music. Every small act of kindness helps provide instruments, lessons, and hope to young musicians who deserve a chance to shine.
Send Us Donations
Your contributions empower us to bring music education to underserved youth. Every donation helps fund mentorship programs, instruments, and opportunities that change lives.
Community Music Support
We ensure every young musician has the resources they need by providing restored instruments, guidance, and ongoing musical support to help them grow with confidence.
Music Education Hours
Kids Impacted
Instrument Donations
Changing Lives Through Music
Young Musician
What Our Supporters Are Saying
Erik and the Young Musician Alliance have stepped my guitar game at Arvada High School. Erik's passion for helping his community has been incredible to see and a blessing to our title 1 school. In the short time I have known Erik and the YMA they have repaired an electric bass, an amplifier, 3 acoustic guitars, a snare drum, donated brand new strings, and donated a 5 string electric bass. I am very thankful Erik reached out to start this collaboration with Arvada High School and the Young Musician Alliance.
The support we have received from Erik and the Young Musician Alliance has been incredible. Their generosity has directly impacted both our school and our students in need, and we are truly grateful! Every donation has arrived quickly and thoughtfully, and it’s clear that Erik understands exactly what teachers and young musicians require to succeed. The instruments and resources he has provided are already helping our students grow in meaningful ways. You can tell that Erik cares deeply about what kids need and followthrough every time. Thank you, Erik and YMA, for making such a real difference in our community!
Thank you so much for your generous donation of the keyboard and two amplifiers. Your support truly makes a difference! These instruments will be put to great use by our students, helping them learn, perform, and grow in confidence. We’re deeply grateful for partners like you who believe in empowering young musicians through the gift of music. Your contribution not only enhances our music program but also inspires our students to dream bigger and reach higher. Together, we’re building a community where every child can discover the joy and power of music. Your kindness echoes in every note our students play, reminding them that their talents matter and that their dreams are possible because of people like you.
A massive thanks to Erik and YMA for stopping by over the weekend with instruments and donations! Everyone on the team is thrilled. Your visit brought energy, excitement, and renewed motivation to our students and staff. We are all incredibly grateful for your generosity and constant support for our mission. Your commitment to getting instruments and resources directly into the hands of kids who need them most has made a real difference here. The care you put into choosing what to donate shows how well you understand both teachers’ needs and the day-to-day realities our young musicians face. Everything you brought arrived in perfect condition and at exactly the right time. Our students are already benefiting from the tools you provided, and it has been inspiring to watch them grow with renewed confidence. You care deeply about what helps kids thrive, and you always follow through. Thank you for everything you do for our school and our community.