Advancement of Music Grants

Advancement of Music Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Presser Foundation
Amount: US $2,500 - US $50,000
Last Updated: September 30, 2025

Summary

The Presser Foundation, established in 1939, offers grants between $2,500 and $50,000 to support music organizations across diverse genres. Focused on fostering music education and philanthropy, the Foundation seeks to empower non-profit, 501(c)(3) organizations within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. However, it does not fund theater or dance productions. Proposals are evaluated based on organizational accomplishments, community value, stability, and overall contributions to the music community.

Overview

About The Presser Foundation was established in 1939 under the Deeds of Trust and Will of the late Theodore Presser. It is one of the few private foundations in the United States dedicated solely to music education and music philanthropy. It is our hope that every institution, organization and individual funded by The Presser Foundation will read about the inspiring biography of Theodore Presser and the rich history of The Foundation. Advancement of Music Program Introduction & Purpose The Committee for the Advancement of Music considers requests for grants typically between $2,500 and $50,000 annually for general operating support of music organizations working in a broad range of traditions, genres, and styles. The Trustees of The Presser Foundation established the Advancement of Music grantmaking area to provide flexible funding to music-focused organizations. The Presser Foundation does not support theater, commercial music theater, dance, or other non-music productions. Proposals will be judged on: the strengths and accomplishments of the applicant organization;the value of the organization’s program to the community;the history and stability of the organization; andthe contribution of the organization to the overall music community.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Non-profit, 501(c)(3) music performance, music presenting or music education organizations.Pre-collegiate music education organizations include: after school music programs, community music schools, music preparatory divisions and youth instrumental and vocal programs.Organizations that are in Pennsylvania (including Harrisburg), New Jersey, Delaware or Maryland and are within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia are eligible to apply.Institutions with whom the Foundation has a long funding history may be invited to apply for multi-year support.

Ineligibility

Organizations in the New York and Baltimore metropolitan areas will not be considered for funding.The Presser Foundation does not support theater, commercial music theater, dance or other non-music productions.