Registration deadline: March 3
Application deadlines: April 1, July 1, September 5

This category offers support to professional music organizations producing and performing concerts either in their home county or elsewhere in New York State. In most cases, Program support will not exceed 50% of the project budget.

Applicants in this category must have had one season of at least three performances in the past two years and must project a season of at least three public concerts during the grant period. Concert opera companies must produce a minimum of three operas with orchestra or two semi-staged opera programs.

Opera companies must produce a minimum of two fully staged opera productions with orchestra, or one fully staged opera with orchestra plus a minimum of one concert (group vocal) recital accompanied by an instrumental ensemble.

Application Instructions

The on-line application form includes the following questions, and a project budget. Complete the Events Schedule form as part of this request. Required support materials are listed below.

Application Narrative Questions

1. Program Overview
Describe the program(s) planned for the proposed year. Note whether the program builds on previous activity or marks a new direction.

2. Updates/Developments
Returning applicants should describe any significant changes or developments in your performance season/programs since it was last reviewed.

3. Audience/Marketing
Briefly describe the demographics of your audience, highlighting any significant changes you have experienced. Describe any marketing efforts used for achieving a broader audience base.

4. Facilities
Briefly describe your performing venue(s).  

5. Finances
Describe plans, projects, and activities for meeting current and future expenses.

6. Artistic Staff
List individual(s) responsible for selection of repertoire and guest artists. Provide a brief summary of their background.

7. Organizational Development
Explain the role and involvement of the Board and senior staff in personnel, evaluation, and organization development. If the organization operates with a long-range plan, summarize the goals and objectives of that plan.

8. Program Context
Are there other organizations providing similar or complementary musical performances in your community? If so, describe your work in partnership with any of these or other organizations, if any.

Budget Note

Funds from Meet the Composer and Musicians Performance Trust Fund should not be included in the project budget, but referenced in the budget notes section of the Project Budget form.

Support Materials

Support materials must be postmarked or hand-delivered to the program by the application deadline. If you want support materials returned, please provide a self-addressed stamped envelope.

The Music Program requires that you send:

- 3 copies of a CD. These may be all the same recording, or different samples, that best reflect your organization.

- 10 copies of relevant printed material (e.g. seasonal brochure, flyer). Choose only one or two samples that best reflect your current work.