Little Kids Rock, a non-profit organization that aims to revitalize music education just hosted its sixth annual benefit in New York City where they honored Joan Jett as “Rocker of the Year.”

The benefit generated $1.5 million in donations “to help support students and music teachers in public schools with donated instruments, curricular resources and training,” said a press release. The organization also honored Jett because of “the impact that her career, influence, and music has had on the charity's 'Modern Band' music program, which helps facilitate the teaching of popular musical styles that kids know and love, like rock, hip hop, country, blues and funk,” the release.

"For twelve years, Little Kids Rock has supported over 320,000 teachers and students realize the true impact of music – inside and outside the classroom," said David Wish, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Little Kids Rock. "Thanks to the generosity of our partners and supporters, we're able to continue to bring this gift to thousands of kids each year, long after the benefit has ended."

Those who attended saw performances by Sharkapella, an after school a cappella vocal group made of current and former students ages 13-16, The Sopranos' Vincent Pastore and radio host, Rich Russo, and more.

The night “then turned its attention to Little Kids Rock ‘Rocker of the Year’ Joan Jett, her legacy and the role she's played in advancing music education.”

“Members of rock royalty paid homage, including Alice Cooper, Billie Joe Armstrong, Cheap Trick, Tommy James, Darlene Love, Gary U.S. Bonds, Kathleen Hanna with Ad-Rock, Mike Ness, Jesse Malin, Brody Dalle, Jake Clemons and Little Kids Rock students from local schools,” the article said.

Guests enjoyed a variety of covers and original music, including Alice Cooper and Joan Jett’s, “Be My Lover”, and the finale of Jett’s classic, “I Love Rock N Roll," said the press release.

"Not only do our students receive the gift of music education for free, but they also know they're welcome in a classroom where everyone speaks the only universal language the world has ever known- music," said teacher John Flora during his address to the audience.

Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor