Undergraduate Scholar & Graduate Music Awards: 2023-2024

In its continued support of undergraduate music students across the country, The Presser Foundation is pleased to announce $732,000 in funds for the Undergraduate Scholar Award program. As part of the program, 244 institutions, including 37 new institutions, nominated a music major in their final year of study to receive a $3,000 award based on demonstrated excellence in three categories – music and academic performance, leadership and service, and contribution to an inclusive community. The Scholar Award Committee reviewed every nominated student submission to ensure alignment with the Foundation’s criteria.

The Foundation also continues its support of the Graduate Music Award program. A graduate student at 15 exceptional music institutions will receive $10,000 in support of a specific project related to their area of study. Past projects have included a commission, performance, and recording of eight works composed by people of color; a jazz quintet recording project and CD release tour; and travel abroad to research a specific composer for a doctoral thesis and lecture recital.

Between both Award programs, the Foundation will contribute $882,000 to further the aspirations and goals of 259 undergraduate and graduate students.

Dr. Mark Wait, Chair of the Scholar Award Committee, commented “While the Undergraduate Scholar Award program has had marked changes this year in pursuit of the Foundation’s mission to center equity, the Scholar Award Committee is gratified to provide consistent support to exceptional music students across the country. Whether through the Undergraduate Scholar Award or the Graduate Music Award, the Foundation remains committed to providing an award that honors a motivated, inclusive leader and scholar in their music program and community. We look forward to learning more about these students and their contributions to furthering the field of music.”

 

About The Presser Foundation

The Presser Foundation was established in 1939 under the will of the late Theodore Presser. It is one of the few private foundations in the United States dedicated solely to music education and music philanthropy. The Presser Foundation considers applications for funding from music organizations working in a broad range of traditions, genres, and styles through general operating and program grants (Greater Philadelphia); capital grants for music building projects (Greater Philadelphia); undergraduate and graduate student awards (national); and assistance to retired music teachers (national). The Foundation is committed to equitable, transparent, and forward-thinking philanthropy. For more information: www.presserfoundation.org