For decades, Meyer Music has been more than just a place to buy instruments—it's been a cornerstone of the Kansas City music community, fostering a love for music in students and families alike. What began as a vision by Ted and Betty Meyer has flourished into a lasting legacy, with their children—Tom, Mike, and Mitzi—continuing to serve musicians of all ages.
At the heart of Meyer Music is an unwavering dedication to making music accessible to all. Through their commitment to nurturing talent and breaking financial barriers, they empower students to develop skills that last a lifetime, proving that music is not just an art, but an invaluable investment in the future.
“My parents founded Meyer Music as a small retail shop,” Tom Meyer reflected. “It has since grown into a dynamic business offering piano sales, rentals, private lessons, and instrument repair.” Beyond serving musicians, Meyer Music supports music educators by providing a recital hall, complete with two grand pianos, at no charge. Their mission has always been clear: to ignite and nurture a lifelong love for music in every student who walks through their doors.
Transforming Lives Through Music
Meyer Music’s passion for music education extends far beyond the walls of their business. In 2010, in partnership with FOX4, they founded Band of Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating financial barriers for students who dream of participating in school band and orchestra programs. Since its inception, Band of Angels has:
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Collected 12,000 donated instruments
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Matched 4,000 students with instruments
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Sent 600 students to summer music camps
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Shipped instruments to 20 states
“Numerous success stories come to mind when thinking about the Band of Angels,” Mike Meyer shared. “One of the most inspiring is Destiny’s. As a young student, Destiny had a passion for music but lacked the means to afford a quality instrument. Through Band of Angels, she was provided with a trumpet, opening the door to countless opportunities. Destiny excelled in her school’s music program and earned a college scholarship. Today, she serves as the Student Liaison for Band of Angels, guiding other young musicians on their own journeys.”
Band of Angels does more than distribute instruments—it provides comprehensive support. Through its Beyond the Match program, students receive private lessons, upgraded instruments, financial assistance for band fees, performance opportunities, and access to scholarships for camps and college programs.
Supporting Music Education for All
“Meyer Music has always believed in the power of collaboration,” Tom Meyer shared. “Working with organizations like the National Association of Music Merchants amplifies our voice in advocating for arts education.” This belief stems from Ted and Betty Meyer, both educators before founding Meyer Music. Their commitment to music education extends beyond individual students, supporting school programs, and collaborating with national organizations to champion arts education. Meyer Music also sponsors workshops and luncheons for local piano teachers, fostering a community that uplifts both educators and students.
As Meyer Music approaches six decades of service, their mission remains strong—bringing the joy of music to future generations. Band of Angels continues to expand with ambitious goals, including new chapters in select cities. “At the heart of our efforts is a steadfast belief,” Tom Meyer shared, “No student should be denied the opportunity to pursue music because of financial barriers.”
The community plays a crucial role in keeping Meyer Music and Band of Angels thriving. Meyer Music isn’t just about selling instruments—it’s about creating a community where music is accessible to all. If you have an unused instrument gathering dust, consider donating it to Band of Angels. Each instrument is either repaired and given to a student in need or transformed into art through the Art That Blows fundraising event. Every contribution helps provide a child the opportunity to discover the life-changing power of music.
"We saw firsthand how many students were unable to join music programs because they couldn’t afford an instrument. Band of Angels was created to ensure that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of a child’s musical dreams."