Theoretical Background of the PaperMusic has historically functioned as a catalyst for social awareness and collective healing. In the context of HIV/AIDS, stigma remains a critical barrier to prevention and treatment, particularly in rural communities and among marginalized populations (Bouabida et al., 2023). Artistic initiatives such as the AIDS Quilt Songbook exemplify how music can articulate lived experiences and foster empathy. Musicians can play a transformative role in disseminating HIV-related knowledge and dismantling stigma.Focus of the WorkThis paper explores a community music initiative at a midwestern university in the US aimed at raising awareness of HIV/AIDS among younger populations and the broader community. The project sought to highlight ongoing research at an affiliated research hospital, remind the public that HIV remains a pressing issue, especially in rural communities, and engage audiences through music as a medium for advocacy and education.ApproachThe initiative centered on a World AIDS Day event at the International Quilt Museum, featuring performances of selections from the AIDS Quilt Songbook and Second Unofficial AIDS Quilt Songbook by faculty, guest artists, and students. Complementary activities included a presentation by an HIV researcher, a display of panels from the original AIDS Quilt, and outreach by a state AIDS advocacy group. The event was streamed online to maximize accessibility. A masterclass for student performers reinforced pedagogical goals, emphasizing interpretive depth and social responsibility in music-making.Summary of the Main IdeasState HIV data reveal persistent disparities: urban areas report three times the HIV rate of rural areas (5.7 vs. 2.1 per 100,000), and Hispanic populations experience infection rates over three times higher than white non-Hispanics (20.7 vs. 7.6 per 100,000) (Nebraska DHHS, 2021). Nationally, over 1.2 million people live with HIV, with 13% unaware of their status (HIV.gov, 2023). These statistics informed repertoire choices and framing of discussions during the event. By integrating performance, education, and advocacy, the project demonstrated music’s capacity to humanize public health challenges and mobilize community engagement.Implications for Music EducationThis initiative illustrates how community music activities can transcend aesthetic goals to address urgent social issues. For music educators, it underscores the importance of socially responsive programming and interdisciplinary collaboration. Embedding advocacy within performance not only enriches students’ artistic development but also empowers them as agents of change. Future applications may include similar partnerships to confront other public health crises, reinforcing music’s role as a bridge between art, science, and community.