About Us

Welcome to the Sunset Music and Education Foundation

Welcome to the Sunset Music & Education Foundation

The Sunset Music & Education Foundation (SMEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enriching lives and building community through the transformative power of music. Founded as Sunset Music in 1985 and established as a nonprofit in 2025, SMEF carries more than 30 years of creative excellence and community leadership.

Our Mission

SMEF transforms lives through music and education. We produce world-class performances that amplify underrepresented voices, foster intergenerational learning, and create pathways to a brighter future for emerging artists and leaders.

Why It Matters

Our legacy is rooted in world-class performances that reflect the full spectrum of our shared humanity. Yet systemic inequities persist: according to the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, artists of color make up less than 20% of mainstream performers, women just 23%, and LGBTQ+ artists remain deeply underrepresented. SMEF exists to change that—onstage and off—by creating platforms, visibility, and resources for historically excluded voices.

Youth Impact: The SMARTS Initiative

At the heart of our work is the SMARTS Initiative (Sharing Music, Accessing Resources, Transforming Students). This program equips underserved youth with instruments, mentorship, scholarships, and performance opportunities. In the Coachella Valley—where 94% of students face economic hardship—music access can change everything: improving academics, boosting confidence, and nurturing tomorrow’s cultural leaders.

The Sunset Music Series

A cornerstone of SMEF, the Sunset Music Series showcases jazz, blues, soul, rock, Latin, classical, country, and comedy—honoring legends, spotlighting rising stars, and celebrating the artistry of women and LGBTQ+ musicians. These performances fuel the SMARTS Initiative, generating essential support for music education, mentorship, and youth empowerment.

Celebrating Culture & Community

Through concerts and educational programs, SMEF honors cultural milestones such as Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Jazz Appreciation Month, and Juneteenth. These events connect music to history and foster unity through shared celebration.

Our Team & Gratitude

SMEF is powered by passionate producers, board members, and volunteers committed to building a future where music, creativity, and community thrive. We extend heartfelt gratitude to:

Our Board of Directors, whose vision and leadership guide our mission.
Our phenomenal artists, who bring soul, truth, and brilliance to every stage.
Our Dream Team of staff, volunteers, teachers, and students, whose passion turns plans into magic.
Our loyal audiences, whose energy fuels every show.
And our generous sponsors and donors, whose unwavering support makes it all possible.

Join Us

Help us inspire and transform lives through music. Together, we can build a legacy of opportunity, creativity, and unity—shaping a future where music is accessible to all and communities are strengthened through the arts, one note at a time.

🎵 Click on the doc below -- expand it to meet our Dream Team!