| May 9, 2025 |

Gibson Gives: “We are proud to continue our partnership with FirstBank Amphitheater in our mission to support Williamson County schools”

Gibson Gives and FirstBank Amphitheater raise over $49,000 for music education in Williamson County, Tennessee

Gibson Gives has once again teamed up with FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin, TN, to support music education in Williamson County. Within the recent Strumming With The Stars effort, Gibson Gives and Julien’s Auction raised an impressive $49,000. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, bringing the total funds raised for Williamson County Public Schools to over $169,000 to date.

The initiative featured 15 hand-signed guitars from notable artists such as Chappell Roan, Slash, Third Eye Blind, and many more. These guitars were auctioned off to enthusiastic bidders, with proceeds directly benefiting music and arts programs in local schools.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with FirstBank Amphitheater in our mission to support Williamson County schools,” said Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director of Gibson Gives. “Arts education plays a crucial role in fostering creativity and personal growth among students, and we are honored to contribute to that cause.”

Rick McEachern, owner of FirstBank Amphitheater, echoed this sentiment, stating, “FirstBank Amphitheater is thrilled to be part of this effort to enrich our community through music education. The funds raised will help nurture the next generation of musicians right here in Williamson County.”

Jason Golden, Superintendent of Williamson County Schools, emphasized the impact of the Gibson Gives contributions. “Gibson’s support enables us to provide comprehensive music instruction, including instruments that may otherwise be inaccessible to our students. This partnership empowers young musicians to pursue their passion and develop their talents.”

The auction’s highlights included unique instruments like the 2020 Slash Collection “Victoria” Les Paul™ Goldtop guitar and a 2021 Gibson Custom Les Paul Custom signed by Slash. These items, along with guitars signed by artists such as Yellowcard and Third Eye Blind, garnered bids from music enthusiasts and collectors.

Where may I learn more about these charitable efforts?

Gibson Gives continues to expand its philanthropic efforts through initiatives like scholarships for aspiring musicians and support for youth-focused music programs worldwide. For more information about Gibson Gives or to make a donation, visit Gibson Gives.

FirstBank Amphitheater, located in Thompson’s Station near Franklin, Tennessee, offers a picturesque venue for live music events amidst natural surroundings. For more details about upcoming events and the venue, visit the official website.

Top image, left to right: Alex Tinker (Project Manager, Gibson Gives), Demetra Kopulos (VIP Program Director, FirstBank Amphitheater), Jason Golden (Superintendent of Schools, Williamson County), Nancy McEachern and Rick McEachern (Owners, FirstBank Amphitheater), Erica Krusen (Global Executive Director, Gibson Gives), and Mark Kinzer (Director of Fine Arts, Williamson County). Photo credit: Josh Beech.

Learn more about recent charitable activations by Gibson Gives.