On a rolling basis, the Fender Music Foundation accepts applications for grants of $500 to $5,000 to support music instruction programs. Almost all of the grants awarded are for traditional instruments and the equipment necessary to play them. To be eligible for funding, an applicant must be an ongoing and sustainable music program in the United States that provides music instruction to people of any age who would not otherwise have the opportunity to make music. In order to be eligible for a grant, the instruments and/or equipment must stay in the program for the life of the instrument/equipment and must be played/used by the participants. Funded programs may be in-school music classes; after-school music programs that are not run by the school; or music therapy programs, in which the participants make the music. Ineligible requests include those for general operating expenses, for scholarship program support, or to purchase items such as recording studio equipment or uniforms. The process of applying for and obtaining a grant from the Fender Music Foundation is a rather lengthy one that begins with the submission of the Grant Candidate Form.
The Mockingbird Foundation offers grants to schools for projects that encourage creative expression in any musical form. The foundation’s one-time only grants range in size from $50 to $5,000. The grants support music education by providing instruments, texts and office materials, teachers, and instruction, particularly for projects that foster self-esteem and free expression. Applicants are required to submit a 1–2 page letter of inquiry describing the organization and/or project, the amount of funds being requested, and the intended use of the grant. Letters of inquiry may be sent from the end of January through August 1 to grants@mockingbirdfoundation.org as an attachment (MS Word or PDF files only). No regular mail or faxed applications are accepted. Organizations will be invited to submit full proposals if their letters of inquiry match the foundation’s priorities. Full proposals will be due in November and May.
The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundationmakes grants to organizations that implement programs in the performing arts and education. This includes programs for English language learners, literacy and life-skills training, along with other forms of educational services in schools. Applications must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on grant deadlines, which are November 1, March 1, and July 1. Organizations may apply only once within a 12-month period. The foundation is located at 1825 K Street, Suite 1400, Washington, DC 20006. Call 202-223-3100. MCPS schools may apply through the MCPS Educational Foundation. Contact the grants specialist for information.
The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation awards grants to support young musicians are available. The Melody Program, the Special Projects Program, and the Solo Program provide musical instruments and instrument repair to kindergarten through 12th grade music programs, community art schools, after school programs, and youth orchestra as well as outstanding individual musicians in need of instruments. Cash grants are not awarded. The application process begins with completion and submission of a prequalification form. Additional information is available on the foundation’s Web site. Eligible applicants include individuals, organizations, and schools that have demonstrated sufficient need as well as long-term and serious interest in music. Contact: MHOE at 15125 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 204, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; Telephone 818-784-6787; or write to info@mhopus.org.