Music Family Scholarship Grant

Music Family Scholarship Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Music Performance Trust Fund
Last Updated: January 26, 2026

Summary

The Music Family Scholarship, funded by the Music Performance Trust Fund, aims to enhance music appreciation and accessibility for children and communities. Established in 1948, the MPTF provides free live music programs across the U.S. and Canada, focusing on underserved populations. Eligible applicants must have a parent in good standing with a Local AFM and be enrolled in higher education for fall 2025. This scholarship encourages artistic expression and community unity through music, fostering enriching experiences for all.

Overview

The Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) was established in 1948 as a nonprofit independent public service organization whose mission includes contributing to the public knowledge and appreciation of music, as well as making music a part of every child’s life experience. Headquartered in New York City, the tax-exempt MPTF, operating under section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code, evolved from a landmark collective bargaining agreement between the American Federation of Musicians and the major recording companies of the day. Today the MPTF is a vital organization that brings music to the public and supplements the income of musicians, all at no cost to those receiving this precious gift of music. Funded via a royalty stream from the signatory record labels, led by the three major labels, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and the Warner Music Group, the MPTF today presents thousands of live, admission-free musical programs annually in the United States and Canada. Under the terms of their agreement, the recording companies pay a royalty from the sale of sound recordings to the Fund. These funds are supplemented by co-sponsoring organizations and administered by a Trustee, who is independent of both the recording industry and the AFM. Programs The Music Performance Trust Fund brings free, live, professional music programs to communities through a variety of means including large-scale festivals and park concerts; educational activities, teacher training and assemblies in schools; intimate assisted living facility and senior center events; and more. Events are presented in partnership with a number of national and local arts and arts education providers. Our aim is to increase access to enriching, quality musical experiences for public school students, older adults, and those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend professional music performances. Music Family Scholarship Requirements Submit a headshotPersonal essay of approximately 500-750 words The prompt for this year is: Imagine you have been given a budget to organize a free event for your local community, to bring together as many people as possible. What features would you include in the event to foster a sense of unity? Write an essay detailing the event you would create, blending arts and culture, while explaining the impact it would have on the special needs of your community.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Have at least one parent in good standing as a member of a Local AFMBe currently enrolled or accepted into an institute of higher education for the fall of 2025