WHY MUSIC?
Music gives veterans a powerful outlet for expression, connection, and healing. Learning an instrument creates something to work toward, something to share, and a community to be a part of.
CONNECTION
CONFIDENCE
PURPOSE
Build meaningful relationships and community through shared musical experiences.
Learn a new skill, overcome challenges, and build confidence one step at a time.
Create something meaningful, express yourself, and have something positive to work toward.
HOW IT WORKS
 01
CHOOSE YOUR INSTRUMENT
02
LEARN & GROW
03
KEEP PLAYING
Choose the instrument that feels right for you.
Receive professional instruction and build your skills.
Keep building your skills, confidence, and connection through music.
WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES
INSTRUMENT
LESSONS
KEEP PLAYING
A beginner-friendly instrument of your choice. Our beginner instrument bundles come with everything you need to get started with learning and playing.
Five 30-minute private music lessons with Forte Lessons by Virtu Academy, connecting you with professional music educators who will help you build your skills and achieve your musical goals.
Your journey doesn't end when the five lessons do. You'll receive a six-month membership to a leading self-paced online music platform, giving you the tools to keep learning, practicing, and growing on your own.
MORE THAN MUSIC.
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and as a veteran and lifelong musician, I have experienced firsthand the difference it can make. Playing music gives you a place to clear your head, work through what you are carrying, and focus on something positive. It can reduce stress, lift your mood, build confidence, and create a sense of connection when you need it most.
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I created Cadence of Courage because I believe music can be a powerful part of healing. Not as a replacement for professional mental health care, but as a healthy outlet that can offer veterans something to look forward to, something to create, and something that belongs to them. Sometimes, picking up an instrument and playing that first note can be the beginning of something much bigger.
Shaun McDonald
President & Founder, Cadence of Courage Foundation, Inc.
THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING.
Cadence of Courage is building more than music programs. We're building a community where veterans can discover music, develop their skills, create alongside others, and find something meaningful to be a part of.
Today, that journey begins with access to instruments and music lessons. Tomorrow, it grows into veteran music communities, songwriting and recording opportunities, immersive retreats, and eventually large-scale music festivals that bring veterans, musicians, and supporters together.
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Our vision is a national community of veterans connected through music-from the first lesson to the stage. We're not here just to teach a veteran an instrument. We're here to build something that keeps them playing, creating, and showing up.
