The Musical Instrument Revolving Loan Fund (MIRF) is a low-interest loan program designed to stimulate the artistic growth of musicians and ensembles by making high-quality musical instruments available to nonprofit music organizations and member musicians. Financed directly by the New York State Legislature and administered by NYSCA, the project makes loans at an annual rate of 3% over a period of up to 10 years. An organization may apply for a loan of up to 100% of the cost of the instrument. While a down payment is desirable, it is not necessary. Funding has been awarded to a variety of professional music organizations, including: an orchestra seeking to purchase a harp, percussion instruments, and carrying cases, a music presenter in need of a piano, and players from an eligible ensemble for various instruments.

Eligibility Criteria

In addition to meeting general Council eligibility criteria, an organization must meet each of the following conditions.

Primary purpose is the creation, production, or performance of musical events

At least three consecutive years of previous support from the Program

A year-round administrator, paid or volunteer

If the organization's core mission is not music, it must demonstrate a track record of music performances produced or presented on a year-round basis.

Application Instructions

The MIRF is not a Music Program funding category, and so does not appear as part of the NYSCA on-line application. The application deadline for these loans is generally in October. The Program will notify grantees of the exact deadline date. Applicant organizations applying for a loan must submit a letter to the Council signed by an officer of the board or CEO/Executive Director that specifies:

The particular instrument(s) to be acquired and whether the instrument is being purchased for a member of the applicant's organization or for the organization's permanent inventory  

The cost of the instrument(s)

Where the purchase is being made

What kind of insurance will be provided

How the instrument(s) will benefit the ensemble and/or the player(s).

The Music Program staff and panel will review each request and make recommendations to the Council for a final decision. When an applicant receives loan approval, a letter will be sent to the recipients advising them to contact Theatre Development Fund<<link to www.tdf.org>> for further instructions. TDF has been contracted to administer the fund and will make the purchase, collect loan payments, and oversee all secured transactions.