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ABOUT

GRANTS

NEWS

Vision Statement

Equitable access to all musical experiences transforms communities and fosters connection, well-being, and joy.

Annual Report

One hundred years of musical philanthropy, and a plan for the future. The Presser Foundation marked an extraordinary year in 2025–26. We celebrated our 100th anniversary, completed a new strategic plan, and brought together more than 150 music organizations for our first-ever grantee gathering. Together, these milestones gave us an opportunity not only to reflect on the Foundation’s history, but to consider what its mission asks of us today.

Our Founder

Born into a working-class family in Pittsburgh, Theodore Presser’s love for music drove him to build a career working in music education and publishing while also inspiring his philanthropy.

Advancement of Music

Provides general operating support to music organizations in the Greater Philadelphia Area.

Application Deadline: November 15th
Notification: March 1stLearn More »

Capital Support

Provides grants for the construction of new facilities; renovation, repair, or expansion of existing facilities; and capital needs, including (but not limited to) hardware, software, and equipment.

Application Deadline: February 1st
Notification: May 1stLearn More »

Special Projects

Grants that fall outside of the Foundation’s core grantmaking areas are considered by the Special Projects Committee.

Application Deadline: By Invitation
Notification: OngoingLearn More »

Undergraduate Scholar Award

Provides financial awards to promising undergraduate students at participating higher education institutions.

Application Deadline: By Invitation
Notification: February 1stLearn More »

Graduate Music Award

Provides project-based awards to promising graduate students at invited higher education institutions.

Application Deadline: By Invitation

Notification: November 15thLearn More »

Assistance to Music Teachers

Provides support to retired music teachers with financial need.

Application Deadline: Ongoing
Notification: RollingLearn More »