The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation—MTNA $25,000 Gateway Prize for Advancement in the Arts


The Stecher and Horowitz Foundation–MTNA $25,000 Gateway Prize for Advancement in the Arts 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, this prize signifies 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 36 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, and a full- or part-time faculty member of a degree granting musical institution of higher education.
  • 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.
  • Four 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)
    • Nurturing Spirit (Essay and choice of a video, article, report or other document)
    • 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.
  • 60% of the evaluation is based on the quality of work in each area (15% per area).
  • 40% of the evaluation is based on the overall impression of the creativity and innovative spirit of the applicant's professional endeavors.

Application Deadline

  • All essays and documentation must be received no later than November 1, 2025, 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
  • Questions should be directed to the MTNA National Headquarters at mtnanet@mtna.org or by calling (513) 421-1420. 

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


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