Music Grants For Young Musicians

Grants For Young Musicians: It is not a mystery that the music industry is not exactly thriving. Music has declined in popularity for over 50 years, and the industry is on its knees. You may have already discovered this frustration, doubt, and disheartenment yourself. If you are interested in starting a career in music, it can only be easy to get started with tax-exempting monetary assistance or grants due to your age.

If you have always dreamed of being a musician, taking up the instrument, composing music, and performing your music in front of an audience and the world, now is the time to put those dreams into action. But obtaining funding can be difficult. It takes a lot of work to get you where you want to go. You may spend countless hours with your music, performing in local bands and writing songs.

Grants for young musicians are financial awards provided by organizations to support the education and training of aspiring musicians. These grants can support young musicians facing financial challenges in pursuing their passion for music.

With the help of these grants, young musicians can access music lessons, purchase instruments, and attend music workshops or summer programs. By providing financial assistance, grants for young musicians can help to level the playing field and provide opportunities for young people with talent and passion, regardless of their financial background. Some grants also promote diversity and equity in the music industry, helping to ensure that all young musicians have the chance to succeed and make a difference.

Types of grants for Young Musicians

1) Start-up loans

Start-up loans can provide a graduate with the funds to start their business, hire staff, and make purchases. Several sources can provide these loans, but private lenders and banks are the most well-known. A start-up loan is an early-stage loan, typically short-term, thus providing the borrower with a short period to repay the loan.

One of the most common ways new businesses acquire the cash they require to expand and thrive is through start-up loans. You can apply for a business loan at a big bank, but before you do so, you will need to ensure that your business plan, credit score, and research are all up to par.

You will only have a realistic chance of being approved for the loan. In addition, proprietors of record labels who purchase the Professional Record Label in a Box package can receive assistance in gaining access to start-up funding. Keep your trust in lenders charging reasonable interest rates. It can look like an easy method to earn some quick cash, but you could wind up owing a lot more than you can afford to pay back if you go this route.

2) Arts grants

Arts grants are avenues through that funding can be provided to young musicians who need support. These arts grants can come from several places, including business organizations, foundations, and institutions. These grants are made available to artists in various forms as funding is sought for specific projects or programs.

If you are a creative professional seeking a large amount of money to get your project off the ground, applying for an arts grant is a fantastic option because, in most cases, you won’t be required to pay anything back. Because these awards are not open to everyone and their competition can be fierce, you will need to provide evidence that you deserve the money and indicate how you intend to put it to use.

The submission process for arts grants can be approached in a few different ways. If you have a home in the United Kingdom, you can submit grant applications to the Arts Council England, the PRS, and other organizations. New Music USA, the National Endowment for the Arts, and other organizations offer funding options for artists and record labels working in the music industry in the United States.

Grant applications can be submitted to several organizations in Australia, such as the Australia Council for the Arts and APRA AMCOS, by Australian musicians and record labels.

Grants for music and the arts are not restricted to the abovementioned instances. There are other funding options available for artists and labels all around the world. If you research the internet, you may uncover more programs that you can apply.

3) Private investors & sponsors

Art grants and other funding options for artists are challenging and often require much work for approval. As a result, many artists and record labels need more capital to cover their financial needs.

If people in the local, national, and even international music scene are responding favorably to your work, you can pique the interest of private investors or sponsors. This investment may provide a much-needed influx of cash and new prospects for promotion and other things. Sponsorship and endorsement deals can be struck with a wide range of businesses, including those in the music industry, the beverage industry, the sports industry, and even the alcoholic beverage business.

You might approach the brands you believe would be a good fit for your artists or label rather than merely waiting for sponsorship opportunities to present themselves to you. It is essential to remember that major record labels, bands, and musicians send hundreds of sponsorship proposals weekly to significant music firms and brands.

Because of this, you will need to find a way to differentiate yourself from the other applicants. Instead of concentrating on what the sponsor can do for you, your pitch should center on what you can do for them.

4) Crowdfunding

People seeking funding for their music career should look at crowdfunding opportunities. People looking for financial support can post a crowdfunding campaign online and ask community members to donate money to help them reach their goals.

A music crowdfunding campaign is an excellent approach to getting the funds you need if your musicians already have a sizable and devoted fan base. Still, you need more money to cover expenses.

Is it feasible that one of your artists would like to record a new album, but they need more cash to pay for studio time? If so, do you have any options for them? You can also have a band you want to take on tour, but you need more money to cover the cost of gasoline to get there.

If you already have a substantial fan following, talk to your legions of loyal followers about the possibility of them providing you with the financial assistance you require to write new songs or put on live concerts.

Websites like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Patreon that promote crowdsourcing provide an easy way to collect financial donations directly from supporters of a cause or project.

Grants for talented young musicians

If you are a gifted musician with little or no experience in the business, you may be eligible to apply for grants and other funding opportunities. Grants have been designed to help talented individuals of limited means get the financing they need to start a new career. They are not meant to be used by one-hit wonders or people who already have loads of money.

If you plan to start a new career as a musician, here are some ways you may be eligible to apply for funding: You can apply for funding if you have been performing in your local community and have an established fan base. If your music is popular within this community, you can seek funding via grants because the arts are not value-added industries.

1) National YoungArts Foundation

The National YoungArts Foundation (YoungArts) is a non-profit organization that supports young artists in the United States in various disciplines, including music. Established in 1981, YoungArts provides opportunities for recognition, further education, and professional development to talented young artists in the early stages of their careers.

YoungArts programs include:

• YoungArts Awards: Recognizes and supports young artists with financial awards and opportunities for exposure and performance.
• YoungArts Week: An annual program in Miami that brings together selected YoungArts award winners for a week of intensive training, performance, and critique.
• YoungArts Backstage: Offers access to a network of alums and professionals for career development and mentorship opportunities.
• YoungArts Masterclasses: Provides opportunities for young artists to work with leading artists in their respective fields.

YoungArts is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents between the ages of 15 and 18 (or in grades 10-12) who demonstrate exceptional talent in the arts. Applications are typically accepted in the fall, and winners are notified the following spring. To learn more and apply, visit the YoungArts website.

Eligibility for National YoungArts Foundation

To be eligible for the National YoungArts Foundation (YoungArts) programs, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be between the ages of 15 and 18 (or in grades 10-12) at the time of application.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Discipline: You must demonstrate exceptional talent in one or more disciplines: visual arts, writing, classical music, jazz, theater, dance, photography, design, film, and interdisciplinary arts.
• Application Deadline: You must submit your application during the annual application cycle, that typically opens in September and closes in October.

It’s important to note that YoungArts is a highly competitive program, and only a limited number of applicants are selected as winners each year. To increase your chances of being selected, it’s recommended to have a strong portfolio or audition tape that showcases your talent and potential. For more information on eligibility requirements and the application process, visit the YoungArts website.

2) Chamber Music America

Chamber Music America (CMA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the creation, performance, and appreciation of chamber music in the United States. Founded in 1977, CMA provides resources, networking opportunities, and funding to help musicians, presenters, and ensembles build sustainable careers and create new works.

CMA’s programs include:

• New Works: Supports the creation of new works by composers and chamber music ensembles through grants and commissions.
• Residency Endowment Fund: Offers funding to chamber music ensembles to support educational and community engagement activities.
• National Conference: An annual gathering of chamber music professionals offering opportunities for networking, professional development, and performance.
• Directory of ensemble and presenter members: Provides information about chamber music ensembles and presenters for booking and collaboration.

CMA is open to individuals and organizations involved in the chamber music field, including musicians, composers, presenters, and ensembles. Visit the Chamber Music America website to learn more about membership and the benefits offered.

Eligibility for Chamber Music America

To be eligible for Chamber Music America (CMA) programs, you must meet the following criteria:

• Membership: You must be a member of CMA. Membership is open to individuals and organizations involved in the chamber music field, including musicians, composers, presenters, and ensembles.
• Discipline: Your work must be related to chamber music, defined as music performed by a small ensemble of 2 to 10 musicians, excluding chorus and solo performers.
• Geographical Location: Your activities must take place within the United States.
• Other Eligibility Requirements: Depending on the specific program or grant, additional eligibility requirements may apply, such as specific age ranges, residency status, and more.

For more information on eligibility requirements and the application process for CMA programs, visit the Chamber Music America website.

3) MusicLink Foundation

The MusicLink Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides music lessons to underserved children in the United States who otherwise could not afford them. Established in 1989, MusicLink’s mission is to make music education accessible to all children, regardless of their financial means.

MusicLink matches students with volunteer music teachers in their communities, providing students with private music lessons at reduced or no cost. This is also one of the best musical instrument grants for schools.  The foundation also provides instruments and materials to participating students and teachers.

Eligibility for the MusicLink program varies depending on the specific program but typically includes the following criteria:

• Age: Children between the ages of 5 and 18 are eligible for MusicLink lessons.
• Income: Students must come from families with low or limited incomes.
• Location: MusicLink lessons are available in select states and regions within the United States.
• Music Interest: Students must express a genuine interest in learning to play a musical instrument.

To learn more about the MusicLink Foundation and its programs, or to apply, visit the MusicLink website.

4) The Alice M. Ditson Fund

This special fund aims to give underrepresented contemporary American classical concert musicians, particularly younger composers, a platform to express themselves, particularly in a concert setting.

Since the foundation’s founding in 1940, it has provided over 2,000 grants to musicians living in the United States to finance recording endeavors.

The Alice M. Ditson Fund is a philanthropic organization that supports musicians and composers in the United States. Established in 1929, the fund awards grants to individuals, organizations, and institutions working in classical and opera music fields.

The Alice M. Ditson Fund awards grants in the following categories:

• Composition: Supports the creation of new classical and opera works by composers.
• Performance: Supports the performance and recording of classical and opera music, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal music.
• Education and Community Outreach: Supports music education and community outreach programs that serve under-resourced communities.

To be eligible for a grant from the Alice M. Ditson Fund, you must be a composer, performer, organization, or institution working in the classical or opera music field. Additionally, you must demonstrate a commitment to furthering the development of classical and opera music in the United States.

Eligibility for The Alice M. Ditson Fund

To be eligible for a grant from The Alice M. Ditson Fund, you must meet the following criteria:

• Focus on Classical and Opera Music: Your work must be in the classical or opera music field.
• United States-based: Your organization, institution, or project must be in the United States.
• Non-Profit Status: Your organization must be a non-profit, tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
• Purpose: Your project or organization must be focused on promoting and supporting classical or opera music in the United States.
• Other Eligibility Requirements: Depending on the specific grant program, additional eligibility requirements may apply, such as specific project goals or budget requirements.

5) Felicity Belfield Music Trust 

Felicity Belfield MBE established the “Felicity Belfield Music Trust” in 1990, intending to donate musical instrument grants for schools to orchestras. Students are encouraged to acquire an instrument commensurate with their musical ability as part of the “Trust’s” mission statement and policies.

Most pupils have been deemed by their instructor to deserve a better instrument than they can buy. After receiving approval, the “Trust” will then purchase (or share the cost of) an appropriate instrument to lend to the student on the condition that it will be returned to it by the time the student reaches the age of 25.

The application period is open to anybody up to the age of 21. You must provide evidence of both your musical aptitude and your need for financial help.

The “Trust” will consider providing financial help to students enrolled in music classes aiming to improve their musical abilities or orchestral skills. The Felicity Belfield Music Trust is a US-based charity that provides financial support to young musicians in need. The trust was established in memory of Felicity Belfield, a talented young musician who died in a car accident.

The Felicity Belfield Music Trust offers financial support to young musicians through grants and bursaries. The trust funds expenses such as musical instrument purchases, music lessons, and music course fees.

To be eligible for a grant from the Felicity Belfield Music Trust, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be under the age of 25 and a resident of the U.S.
• Financial Need: You must demonstrate financial need and how the grant will help you further your musical education and career.
• Musical Ability: You must be a talented young musician with a demonstrated passion for music.

6) Cherry Tree Foundation 

Make one-time awards of a small amount to youngsters who are talented in music, drama, or the arts; these children do not have to pay school fees. Cherry Tree Grants are $250, typically awarded to students with a dedicated parent or teacher who can help the child with their music progress.

The Cherry Tree Foundation is a US-based charity supporting students who show promise in the arts.

This volunteer-driven organization funds programs and initiatives designed to nurture artistry among young people by providing them with opportunities and access to professional training in music, dance, drama, visual arts, or film. Grants are awarded for expenses such as dance classes or art supplies.

Eligibility:

• All applicants must be between the ages of 10 and 18 and active participants in the Cherry Tree Foundation program.
• Applicants are selected based on individual or group artistic talent, achievement, and need. The number of awards varies throughout the year but ranges from $50 to $1,000.

7) New York Foundation for the Arts 

The New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) is a non-profit organization that supports artists and cultural organizations in New York. Established in 1971, NYFA provides various resources, including grants, fellowships, professional development programs, and resources for artists and cultural organizations.

Its goal is to promote and support the growth and development of the arts in New York and to ensure that artists and cultural organizations have the resources they need to thrive. This foundation is a United States-based organization that promotes the arts and builds a culture of art in the state.

Eligibility Criteria New York Foundation for the Arts

You must meet the criteria to qualify for a New York Foundation for the Arts grant.

• Artistic Talent: You must be an artist or cultural organization working in the visual arts, dance arts, literature, performing arts, and film/video arts.
• Need: You must demonstrate financial need as a result of resource constraints.
• Intended Use: You must indicate how you intend to use your grant. The NYFA does not fund programs using your money for salary or general operating expenses.

The New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) eligibility criteria depend on the specific program or grant you are applying for. Generally, the following criteria apply:

• Residency: NYFA grants and fellowships are open to artists who are residents of New York State.
• Discipline: NYFA supports artists in various disciplines, including visual arts, performing arts, and writing.
• Career Stage: NYFA offers programs and grants for artists at different stages of their careers, including emerging artists, mid-career artists, and established artists.
• Tax Status: NYFA funding opportunities are available to non-profit organizations and individuals.
• Other Criteria: Some NYFA programs have specific eligibility criteria based on the program’s goals and objectives. For example, some programs may require that applicants have a certain level of professional experience or have received a certain level of recognition for their work.

8) Music for all 

Music for All is a national non-profit organization based in Indianapolis, Indiana that promotes music education and music-making across the United States. The organization’s mission is to create, provide, and expand positively life-changing experiences through music for all.

Music for All offers a variety of programs and events, including the Bands of America Marching Band Championships, the Music for All National Festival, and the Music for All Summer Symposium.

These programs provide opportunities for young musicians and music educators to develop their skills, connect with others who share their passion for music, and perform in front of large audiences.

Music for All also provides resources and support to music education programs across the country, including grants and advocacy efforts. Its goal is to help ensure that all students have access to quality music education and that music remains an integral part of the school curriculum.

Eligibility Criteria for Music for all

The eligibility criteria for programs and events offered by Music for All vary depending on the specific program. However, here are some general criteria that may apply:

• Age: Some programs offered by Music for All are open to participants of a certain age range, typically high school students.
• Residency: Some programs may require that participants reside in the United States.
• Enrollment: Some programs may require participants to enroll in a school music program or be part of a community ensemble.
• Music Education: Programs such as the Music for All Summer Symposium may require that participants have a certain level of musical training or experience.
• Other Criteria: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a minimum GPA or the ability to pay a participation fee.

It is recommended to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each program offered by Music for All before applying to ensure that you meet the requirements. For more information on specific programs and their eligibility criteria, you can visit the Music for All website.

9) The Christine Brown Trust for Young Musicians 

The Christine Brown Trust for Young Musicians provides financial assistance to highly gifted young musicians under the age of 19 who are residents of the United Kingdom and have difficulty making ends meet.

This could imply making a financial contribution toward the price of lessons, assisting with purchasing a new instrument, or covering the cost of summer school or orchestra fees. Generally, this could refer to anything associated with an instrumental education expense.

The Christine Brown Trust makes it a rule that no young musician will be unable to receive support due to their social or ethnic background. Preference is given to young musicians who have been identified as having great potential but may need help to realize it due to social, financial, and cultural obstacles.

The trust also requires that all applications are in the hands of the Charity by the end of the first week in March for consideration for awards for the following year.

Eligibility Criteria for The Christine Brown Trust for Young Musicians

The following criteria apply to the Christine Brown Trust:

• Age: A young musician must fall within the age group of 6–19.
• Residency: The Christine Brown Trust will give preference to young musicians residing in the United States, but if there are more applications from outside this area than funding available, the Trustees reserve the right to award their funds nationally.
• Furthermore, no young musician will be ineligible for support due to their social or ethnic background.
• Instrumental: The Trust supports instrumentalists only.
• Applications can be completed by the parent or guardian of the young musician applying for assistance.

10) Tennessee Arts Commission

Within the framework of this organization, the options available in Tennessee cover a broad spectrum. It provides financial support for creative individuals, as well as other projects, education, and many other things.

There is a fellowship available to professional artists of any background or musical genre, including composers, and it is called the Individual Artist Fellowship.

The recipient of this fellowship receives $5,000. The only requirement for eligibility for this fellowship is that you already have a steady income from your musical endeavors before applying.

The Tennessee Arts Commission stipulates that all applicants must already have a steady income from their musical endeavors before applying for this award. The award is also open to professional artists of any background or musical genre, including composers.

Music grants for young musicians under 15

Music grants for young musicians are another way to help young artists in the music industry. It helps aspiring young musicians use their passion for music as support and guidance through their creative process.

Young artists need the opportunity to develop a connection between themselves and others through music. They often face fears and limitations of not knowing where to start or how to get started with their musical careers.

Youth Music Grants allow young musicians to establish relationships with others in their community by supporting their musical ambitions. The grants are offered through local music programs and administered by state musician services organizations. These grants often include a variety of resources, including supplies, materials, equipment, and professional guidance and assistance.

1) Berklee Fellowships for Graduate Students 

Berklee College of Music offers fellowships for graduate students through scholarships and grants. These fellowships are awarded to highly talented and motivated students who demonstrate financial need and are designed to support the continuation of their academic and creative pursuits.

The specific criteria, amount, and application process for Berklee graduate fellowships vary, but interested students should contact the Berklee Office of Financial Aid for more information.

Scholarships and Fellowships are highly competitive and based on merit via a competitive application process. Scholarships are awarded to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional promise for professional and creative achievement in the music industry. It is optional to provide an introduction to Berklee College of Music; moreover, were you aware that they support fellowships for graduate students?

They offer a variety of fellowships, some of that include the BerkleeICE Fellowships, that provide funding for internships with select business owners in new media, technology, and various creative industries; the Global Fellowships, that support internships internationally at nontraditional music companies (how incredible does that sound?!); and the Wachter Fellowships, that provide funding for experiential learning and alums networks in Los Angeles.

In addition, they provide funding for programs designed specifically for Berklee College of Music graduate students. These programs include opportunities to teach at Berklee partner schools worldwide for semesters or years and year-long opportunities at Berklee’s campuses in Boston and Spain.

Eligibility for Berklee Fellowships for Graduate Students

To be eligible for Berklee College of Music graduate fellowships, students typically must:

• Be accepted into a Berklee graduate program
• Demonstrate financial need
• Maintain good academic standing

Additional criteria may include:

• Merit-based achievement in musical or academic pursuits
• Career goals and potential for impact in the music industry
• Underrepresented background in the field of music

Eligibility criteria for specific fellowships may vary, and students should consult the Berklee Office of Financial Aid or the specific fellowship program for more information.

2) PRS Foundation 

The PRS Foundation is a music charity that supports new and emerging music talent. It provides funding and resources to help musicians, composers, songwriters, and producers develop their careers and make new work. The PRS Foundation offers a range of funding opportunities, including grants, fellowships, and awards, and works in partnership with various organizations to support music initiatives and events.

Some of its popular programs include the International Showcase Fund, the Open Fund for Music Creators, and the Women Make Music fund. Interested musicians and music industry professionals can visit the PRS Foundation website for more information on available funding opportunities and how to apply.

PRS is the largest organization of its sort, providing awards to musicians and producers at all stages of their careers. Their current grants also include the Open Fund for Music Creators, that is intended to aid musicians of all stripes and experience levels, and the Women Make Music grant, that is intended to aid women in the music industry and promote future role models by providing financial assistance to women musicians of all stripes.

Eligibility for PRS Foundation

To be eligible for funding from the PRS Foundation, applicants must typically:

• Be a music creator, composer, songwriter, producer, or industry professional.
• Demonstrate artistic merit and potential for career development
• Have a clear and achievable project proposal

Additional eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific funding program and may include the following:

• Residency status
• Career stage (emerging or established)
• Musical genre or style
• Collaboration with other musicians or organizations

Interested individuals are recommended to visit the PRS Foundation website for detailed information on the eligibility criteria for each funding program and for guidance on applying.

3) Beebe Fund for Musicians Grants

The Beebe Fund grant is a chance that classical musicians and composers who are itching to see the world should keep an eye on. With a salary of $22,000, grant recipients will also receive funding for their travel and accommodation costs for an entire year.

The Frank Huntington Beebe Fund provides grants for Musicians to musicians based in the United States (even if they are not necessarily citizens of the United States) who are in the early stages of their professional careers and have yet to participate in a comprehensive study abroad experience.

To be eligible for the prize, applicants must be no older than 29 years old at the time it is given to them and must provide evidence of previous achievements. The Beebe Fund for Musicians is a US-based nonprofit organization that provides grants to classical musicians to support their education, professional development, and career advancement.

The Beebe Fund awards grants to young musicians, particularly those in the early stages of their careers, to help cover the costs of tuition, study, and performance opportunities. The organization’s mission is to help talented and motivated musicians pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

To be eligible for a Beebe Fund grant, applicants typically must:

• Be a classical musician in the early stages of their career
• Demonstrate exceptional talent and potential for future success
• Be currently enrolled in a music school, conservatory, or graduate program
• Provide evidence of the financial need

For more information on the Beebe Fund for Musicians and its grant program, including specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and application deadlines, interested individuals can visit the organization’s website or contact them directly.

4) Stanford Arts Fellowship with Warner Music Group 

You will need to be enrolled at Stanford University (in any major) and take a course with the title “The Changing World of Popular Music” before you are eligible to apply for this fellowship Stanford University offers.

You will then be eligible for a 10-week paid in-house project at Warner Music Group, during that you will be given a customized task in a department based on your unique interests.

This assignment will last for the duration of the 10-week paid in-house assignment. Focus areas include, but are not restricted to, business, civic conscience and impact, marketing, and software development.

The Stanford Arts Fellowship with Warner Music Group is a collaboration between Stanford University and the Warner Music Group to provide fellowship opportunities for graduate students at Stanford’s Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA).

The fellowship provides a unique opportunity for graduate students to engage with academic and industry leaders in the music and technology fields and pursue cutting-edge research in music, technology, and innovation.

Eligibility for Stanford Arts Fellowship with Warner Music Group

To be eligible for the Stanford Arts Fellowship with Warner Music Group, applicants must typically:

• Be enrolled in a graduate program at Stanford University’s CCRMA
• Have a strong academic record and research experience in music and technology
• Be passionate about innovation and the intersection of music and technology

5) McKnight Artist Fellowships 

This fellowship, that has its headquarters in Minnesota, is one of the nation’s oldest and largest. Outstanding Minnesota artists midway through their careers can receive cash rewards of up to $25,000 per year through the McKnight Artist Fellowship Program.

The prizes are open-ended, meaning they can be put toward anything, including taking the time to learn, experiment, explore, and do various other activities. They welcome musicians of any style to participate and receive assistance in the field of music from the American Composers Forum and the MacPhail Center for Music.

The McKnight Artist Fellowships are awarded annually by the McKnight Foundation to Minnesota-based artists in various disciplines, including musicians. The fellowships are designed to provide financial support and recognition to talented artists, allowing them to focus on their work and take their careers to the next level.

To be eligible for a McKnight Artist Fellowship, applicants typically must:

• Be a Minnesota-based artist in any discipline, including music
• Have a significant body of work and professional achievements
• Demonstrate artistic excellence and potential for continued growth
• The McKnight Artist Fellowships are highly competitive and selective; applicants are judged on their work’s quality and potential for continued artistic growth.

For more information on the McKnight Artist Fellowships, including specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and application deadlines, interested individuals can visit the McKnight Foundation’s website or contact them directly.

6) National Endowment for the Arts

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is an organization that not only gives financial assistance to musical organizations but also has a jazz fellowship program that awards master artists whose contributions to jazz are significant enough to merit national attention.

Be on the lookout for this one because the grants awarded by their organization range anywhere from $20,000 to $25,000, with the NEA Jazz Master Fellowships coming in at $25,000. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is a US federal agency that provides funding for the arts through grants to organizations and individuals.

Its goal is to promote and preserve the excellence and diversity of American arts and culture and provide all Americans access to the arts. Established in 1965, the NEA is an independent agency of the federal government and operates under the guidance of a National Council on the Arts. The NEA offers grants in various categories, including theater, dance, music, literature, and visual arts.

Eligibility for National Endowment for the Arts

The eligibility criteria for National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grants vary depending on the type of grant being applied for. However, in general, the following organizations and individuals are eligible to apply for NEA grants:

• Nonprofit organizations with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
• State and local government agencies.
• Native American tribal governments and organizations.
• Educational institutions, including public schools, colleges, and universities.
• Artists and literary writers.

The NEA also has specific guidelines for each grant program, including eligibility criteria based on the proposed project type and the applicant’s geographic location. It is advisable to carefully review the guidelines for the grant program you are interested in and to contact the NEA if you have any questions about eligibility.

7) Academy of Country Music: Lifting Lives Grant 

There is a grant available that is focused on enhancing people’s lives through the medium of music. They provide financial support for initiatives such as music therapy, instrument repair, and artist-in-residence programs, all of that employ music as a medium to advance educational and therapeutic goals.

The Academy of Country Music’s Lifting Lives Grant is a charitable initiative that provides support and resources to organizations that serve the needs of communities in health, wellness, education, and the arts. The grant is designed to help these organizations make a meaningful impact on the lives of those they serve.

Eligibility for Academy of Country Music: Lifting Lives Grant

Eligibility criteria for the Lifting Lives Grant include the following:

• Organizations must be registered nonprofits with tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
• Organizations must serve communities in health, wellness, education, and the arts.
• Organizations must demonstrate a clear and direct connection between their proposed project and the communities they serve.

It is important to note that the Academy of Country Music sets specific guidelines and requirements for each grant cycle and that the eligibility criteria may change yearly. It is advisable to review the latest guidelines and requirements for the Lifting Lives Grant on the Academy of Country Music’s website and to contact them if you have any questions.

8) Atlantic Music Festival Fellowships 

Fellows of the Atlantic Music Festival will receive reimbursement for their tuition, lodging, and meals for their four-week stay at the festival. This fellowship is open to instrumentalists, songwriters, conductors, and opera singers.

During those four weeks, Fellows will have the opportunity to participate as orchestra members and play as featured performers in recitals and chamber performances.

They will also have plenty of possibilities to collaborate with the artist-faculty members of AMF and others involved in the festival — talk about an abundance of networking opportunities!

The Atlantic Music Festival Fellowships are likely awards or scholarships given to talented musicians who attend the Atlantic Music Festival, a musical event, or a summer program. The details of these fellowships, such as the eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits, are not specified and may vary from year to year.

Eligibility for Atlantic Music Festival Fellowships

To be eligible for the Atlantic Music Festival Fellowships, the applicant must typically meet the following criteria:

• Be a music student or professional.
• Demonstrate exceptional musical ability and potential
• Be able to participate in the entire duration of the festival

Note: It’s always best to check the specific requirements for each year, as they may change or have updates.

9) Musicians Foundation 

This organization is carrying out some remarkable and important work. Their awards are available to musicians of any style or instrument who are experiencing significant hardship due to a personal, medical, or familial emergency or a natural disaster.

Although there are a few conditions, such as having worked as a professional musician in the United States for at least five years, this is a wonderful chance for those dedicated to their trade but currently experiencing financial difficulties.

The Musicians Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to professional musicians in need. The foundation helps musicians who have fallen on hard times due to illness, disability, death of a spouse, or other unforeseen circumstances.

The Musicians Foundation provides one-time grants to eligible musicians to help cover basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, and food. To be eligible, the applicant must typically meet the following criteria:

• Be a professional musician with a verifiable income from music-related work.
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident
• Demonstrate financial need

10) Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation 

The Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation is pleased to give financial assistance in the form of grants to musicians who need a little more help to explore and perfect their craft through touring, growing their audience, and general career development.

They provide several different opportunities, such as grants to support travel and accommodations for US artists who have been invited to perform at festivals outside the country, creative fellowships, and a French-American Cultural Exchange that provides financial assistance to French jazz musicians who are traveling to the US and vice versa.

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the creation and presentation of the arts in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, including Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.

The foundation provides grants and programs that support artists, arts organizations, and communities and works to encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences in the arts. It seeks to promote a thriving and diverse arts sector that enriches the quality of life in the region.

Eligibility for Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation

• The eligibility for grants and programs offered by the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation varies depending on the initiative. However, the foundation generally supports individual artists, arts organizations, and consortia in the Mid-Atlantic region (Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania).
• Individual artists may be eligible for support if they are residents of the Mid-Atlantic region or if the project for that they seek support will take place in the region. Arts organizations must be based in the region, and consortia must include members from the region.
• It is recommended to check the specific guidelines and requirements for each program or grant offered by the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation to determine if you are eligible.

11) Luminarts Cultural Foundation

Artists living in and around the Chicago metropolitan region have access to many fellowship possibilities in creative writing, jazz music, classical music, and visual arts through the Luminarts organization.

You are eligible to apply for their residency program if you are a musician between the ages of 18 and 30 who resides within 150 miles of the Chicago loop and is either currently enrolled in or a grad of a degree program, school of music, or other professional artist development program. In addition, you must live within the city limits of Chicago.

In 2019, $52,000 will be given out to multiple classical musicians applicants, and $30,000 will be given to jazz musicians.

Additionally, they give project funds for their Luminarts Fellows, as well as funding for high school jazz programs. The Luminarts Cultural Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization based in Chicago, Illinois. It was established in 1965 to promote and support young artists in classical music, classical vocal music, writing, and visual arts.

The foundation offers a range of programs and initiatives to support young artists, including fellowships, awards, and cultural and educational programs. These programs provide opportunities for artists to develop their skills and gain recognition and exposure to new audiences and professional networks. The foundation also provides opportunities for community engagement through its cultural and educational programs, that bring the arts to diverse audiences.

Eligibility for Luminarts Cultural Foundation

To be eligible for the Luminarts Cultural Foundation, the following criteria must be met:

• The applicant must be a resident of the greater Boston area, Chicago, or Los Angeles.
• The applicant must be between the ages of 17 and 25.
• The applicant must pursue a career in the arts, including but not limited to classical music, jazz, opera, dance, theater, writing, and visual arts.
• The applicant must demonstrate financial need.

It is important to note that these criteria may change over time, so it is best to check the foundation’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

This article features a collection of the most prominent charitable organizations that support the arts. The information was pulled from public records and pro-bono estimates.

The discrepancies between the estimates and actual funds donated likely come from misjudging pre-existing fund gaps versus estimating additional funding needs for specific initiatives.

Younger organizations are likely more susceptible to funding gaps the immediately after their foundation establishment.

The years and amounts of the grants are given to provide a fair comparison in the present day, where the amount of funds at each organization is relatively stable. This map represents how much money has been distributed over time. Still, one should refrain from using these figures to show how many organizations are currently seeking support or how much money they have available for distribution.

Using the information above, you can research the grant availability at your favorite organization by visiting their websites and contacting them directly.