The Mockingbird Foundation

Description: The Mockingbird Foundation, which "generates charitable proceeds from Phish fandom," offers grants for programs and projects designed to support and improve music education. MFI funding focuses on providing for the basic needs of musical instruction, as well as on projects that foster creative expression. Grants range in size from $50.00 to $5,000.00. Anyone interested in submitting a grant proposal should first send a 1-2 page letter of inquiry.
> www.mockingbirdfoundation.org/funding

Mr. Holland’s Opus

Who May Apply: U.S. schools with an ongoing (for at least three years) instrumental music program that includes regular classes and also offers private and/or group lessons outside of those classes.

Description: The Melody program, one of three grant programs administered by www.mhopus.org/award.htm. The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, provides musical instruments and instrument repairs to K-12 school music programs that have no other source of financing for musical instruments and materials. The program does not offer cash grants; grants of instruments or repairs typically range between $500 and $5,000.
> www.mhopus.org/melody.htm

Music Performance Fund

MPF supports programs which are often the only source of live music in the communities in which they take place. MPF is the largest single sponsor of live music in the world. A main objective of the Fund in recent years has been support of music education in the schools. As federal, state and municipal funding for music education in public schools has declined, MPF has increased its commitment to filling the void. Repeated studies have shown that exposure to music enhances a child’s ability to read and learn. It has been shown to improve vocabulary, concentration, enhance problem solving skills and study habits, and encourage cooperation. At present, 25% of our available funds are earmarked for in-school programs.
> www.musicpf.org

Public High School Music Programs

The Grammy Signature Schools program of the Grammy Foundation annually honors exceptional public high school music programs across the United States.
Maximum Award: $25,000
Eligibility: School music departments applying for the Grammy Signature Schools Enterprise Award must demonstrate financial need.
> www.grammyintheschools.com

American Chamber Music Players Foundation

The Amateur Chamber Music Players (ACMP) Foundation is an international organization that fosters the playing and singing of chamber music for people of all ages and skill levels. The foundation has announced the Community Music Award. The purpose of this program is to encourage and create opportunities for schools, youth orchestras, and other institutions, including public schools for chamber music activity. The funds are used for scholarship and to underwrite program staff salaries.
Note: First-time applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation in advance of submitting.
Grant Amount: $2,000
Contact Phone: 212-645-7424
> www.acmp.net