Grammy Award–winning artist Wyclef Jean visited Newark's American History High School on Monday to help launch a new music education initiative in partnership with Music Will, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding modern music instruction in public schools.

The event marked the start of 20 new music programs being created in Jean’s name across New Jersey and New York. The partnership will provide schools with new instruments and access to Music Will’s “Modern Band” curriculum, which focuses on a variety of genres.

“We’re trying to make this how music is taught around the country,” said Music Will CEO Mike Wasserman, who hopes to expand the program to every school in Newark.

Principal Margaret Murray said the donation strengthens community and creativity, “Music is a language we can all understand and rally around.”

Music teacher Domonique Walker added that Jean’s visit hopefully encouraged students to take part in the music classes and opportunities that are being provided. “Seeing him freestyle showed them you just get up there and do it,” she said.

The initiative aims to ensure all students, regardless of background, have meaningful access to music education and the tools to express themselves.