About The Presser Foundation
The Presser Foundation was established in 1939 under the Deeds of Trust and Will of the late Theodore Presser, an educator, publisher, and philanthropist. It is one of the few private foundations in the United States dedicated solely to music education and music philanthropy. The Presser Foundation supports a broad range of classical symphonic, chamber, choral and vocal music. Potential grantees are required to submit proposals by the following deadlines and will be notified accordingly.
Deadlines & Notifications
| Grant Making Area | Proposal Deadline | Decision Notification |
| Advancement of Music | November 15th | March 1st |
| Assistance to Music Teachers | Ongoing | Ongoing |
| Capital Support* | February 1st | May 1st |
| Special Projects** | September 15th | November 1st |
| Undergraduate Scholar Award | September 1st | November 15th |
*Given the environment of continued uncertainty due to COVID-19, the Capital Support Committee is open to considering proposals including the capital needs of music organizations to support music programming efforts during this current and next fiscal years. Capital needs can include (but are not limited to) hardware, software, equipment and supplies. Applicants are invited to contact Teresa Rodgers, Executive Director, with questions before submitting. TRodgers@presserfoundation.org
**Please note significant changes to Grant Guidelines for Special Projects. We strongly encourage careful review. Newly established music organizations (within 3 years) should apply under Special Projects for general operating support typically provided through Advancement of Music.
Our Values: Passion, Integrity, Respect
We pledge to serve as responsible stewards advancing the art of music and continuing the legacy of Theodore Presser with passion, integrity and respect.
Passion for music.
Music is our purpose. We are committed to supporting the future of music and its excellence.
Integrity in every endeavor.
We hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards to earn trust in all we do.
Respect at all times.
We acknowledge the value and dignity of the people we serve and with whom we work. We are open to new ideas and embrace the diversity of our music community.
Next Movement: An Idea Forum
The COVID-19 pandemic forced music educating, music performing and music presenting organizations to a temporary standstill, impacting an unprecedented number of people. The Presser Foundation and American Composers Forum, Philadelphia Chapter co-hosted five Idea Forums and invited colleagues to share thoughts about resilience, creativity, and programming during pandemic. Click on the box below to access the recordings.
