The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation—MTNA $10,000 Joyce B. Cowin Career Grant

and

The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation—MTNA $10,000 Melvin Stecher and Norman Horowitz Career Grant


The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation–MTNA $10,000 Joyce B. Cowin Career Grant and The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation–MTNA $10,000 Melvin Stecher and Norman Horowitz Career Grant were designed to attract and interest young accomplished classical pianists worthy of recognition, who desire to further their dreams of success in this ever-changing world of the performing artist. A joint collaboration of the Stecher and Horowitz Foundation and the MTNA Foundation Fund, these grants signify not just the philanthropic commitment of Norman Horowitz and Melvin Stecher to MTNA, but also their dedication to classical music through the quality of teaching, research, performance, and scholarship in music, all of which is a direct reflection of the standards of MTNA.


Application Guidelines

Eligibility

  • Applicant must be 28 years of age or younger as of November 5, 2025.
  • Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Applicant must be a current active classical pianist/performer with teaching experience.
  • Previous recipients of the grants are not eligible to apply.

Application Materials

  • Current contact information including name, address, phone, and email.
  • Applicant profile information including a current resume and date of birth.
  • Three essays and supporting media/documents for each that demonstrate innovation and success in the following areas:
    • Artistic Excellence (Essay and 45-minute performance video; there are no repertoire requirements as the program should be selected to best showcase the breadth of the applicant’s artistry)
    • Pedagogical Leadership (Essay and teaching video)
    • Community Service (Essay and choice of a video, article, report or other document)

Selection Process

  • A panel of adjudicators will evaluate each applicant's essays and documentation.
  • 45% of the evaluation is based on the quality of work in each area (15% per area).
  • 55% of the evaluation is based on the overall impression of the creativity and innovative spirit of the applicant's professional endeavors.

Failure to follow directions or meet eligibility requirements may disqualify the applicant.


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