“I don’t have time.” But do you have time to gain knowledge and experience while expanding your professional community? Do you have time to seek a greater sense of purpose while enriching your personal network? The value of volunteering is greater than the time given.

Imagine a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn an instrument, raise their voice in song and explore their creativity through music. Grassroots music advocacy is making that vision a reality—one community at a time. It connects people through music and strives to ensure that every child, no matter their background, has access to the transformative power of music education.

Grants can provide a source of revenue for individuals, organizations and associations. A faculty member applies for a university research grant; a collegiate member applies for a travel grant; an independent teacher applies for a professional development grant; a non-profit academy applies for equipment funds; or a state/local affiliate applies for project funding.

 

When embarking on a fundraising activity, the question that most people ask is "Who has the money?" The question they should be asking is "Who cares?" Who is passionate about the same things that you are? Who cares about your cause, values, outcomes and impact? These are the people who will most want to provide support for your project.

We teach in isolation. Students practice in isolation. Connecting a studio (or collegiate chapter or local association) with the community can alleviate isolation. More importantly, it is a smart business choice.

Arts advocacy is not a specialized career for a select few. It is an important investment from all who see the arts as vital to our lives and our communities.