Grants for Music for After-School Programs
As music-instruction hours during school time go down, after-school music programs can make up the difference for many students. They are expensive to run, however, especially because of the cost of buying and maintaining instruments. If your after-school music program needs funds, you can apply for grants aimed at boosting music programs.
Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation
This California-based non-profit makes grants throughout the United States. It was inspired by the movie "Mr. Holland's Opus," which told the story of a beloved music teacher and his influence on generations of pupils. After-school programs applying for grants must be at least 3 years old and serve students from low-income families or students that attend Title 1 schools. The grants--up to $10,000--must be used solely for instrument acquisition and repair; they cannot be used for teacher salaries, music lessons or events. The program must have its own instruments.
Mockingbird Foundation
This foundation also funds programs throughout the United States by making grants to schools and nonprofits. It targets children 18 or under and is particularly interested in funding disenfranchised and low-income groups. Grants may be used for the provision of instruments, texts and office materials or the support of learning and performance space and provision of instruction.
Fender Music Foundation
The Fender Foundation makes grant to "established, ongoing and sustainable" music programs. The intent of the program must be music instruction rather than music appreciation or entertainment. Nonprofits or public school boards can apply. The grants range in value from $500 to $5000, usually for traditional instruments and equipment. The grants cannot be used to cover repairs, sheet music, event sponsorship or general operating expenses.
