Press release
The Presser Foundation is pleased to announce new Special Project single-year and multi-year grants, totaling $332,750 to 22 innovative music organizations. This significant investment underscores the Foundation's commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity in the Greater Philadelphia music scene. This year's grants, spanning three strategic categories, aim to catalyze transformative musical initiatives:
- Pilot Projects: $167,250 awarded to seven organizations
- First-Time Collaborations: $85,000 distributed to four partnerships
- General Operating Support for Newer Music Organizations: $80,500 granted to eleven recipients
Additionally, the Foundation will honor $43,000 in previous commitments, bringing the total impact of $375,750.
Peter Burwasser, Chair of the Special Projects Committee, emphasized the creative vision behind this year's selections:
"The 2024-25 Special Project grants showcase an extraordinary array of initiatives designed to engage and inspire the Greater Philadelphia community. Standout projects include the launch of the 'Philadelphia Synth Library,' a pioneering space dedicated to analog synthesizers and related technologies; an opera company's innovative resident community artist model; and a groundbreaking collaboration between a music organization and a nonprofit bridging the disability community with cultural arts. These projects exemplify our grantees' dedication to reimagining the intersections of music, community, and equity."
Burwasser added, "We're particularly proud to announce our largest-ever allocation of general operating support to newer music organizations. Each funded entity is committed to creating inclusive environments and sharing music with underrepresented populations. Their thoughtful approaches and missions give us great optimism for a more inclusive musical future."
View the attached PDF for a full list of grant recipients.
