EMA Relief Fund: Supporting Early Musicians in Need
Update 5/29/20: Thanks to the generous response of more than 350 donors, the application for emergency funding is still open. If you can confirm that you’ve lost income due to the cancellation of early music/historical performance events and have not previously been funded, please click on “Apply” below.
The current global health crisis is having a severe impact on arts and culture. Performances and productions have been canceled for months, with the result that many musicians are suffering severe financial stress. More than 120 musicians have completed EMA’s COVID-19 Impact Survey and most are reporting financial losses resulting from concert cancellations. It’s hard to comprehend the impact this moment will have on the arts in the US.
We know we don’t have the resources to help everyone and that these mini-grants can’t make up for a couple of months of loss of performance income. But we can do something, and, in doing so, set an example of community spirit and provide some hope in this time of unprecedented challenge to livelihoods, artistic expression and security. This page is where early musicians apply for a mini grant and where those with the means can contribute to the fund.
EMA and Gotham Early Music Scene are partnering to promote this fund. #WeAreEarlyMusic Together!
How do I APPLY for a mini grant?
Fill out the simple form at the bottom of the page. We need your name, address, and telephone number. Please upload one document, such as your resume, a recent concert program, or notice of cancellation, to show that you are actively engaged in historical performance as your source of income, and use the text box if you need to provide additional explanation.
EMA membership is NOT required.
Open to citizens or permanent residents of North America only.
What will I receive?
Early musicians will receive, on a first-come-first-served basis, a payment of $250. The money will be redistributed by Zelle transfer (US residents only) or a check mailed through Bank of America’s bill pay system.
Questions?
Contact ReliefFund@earlymusicamerica.org
Find more resources on EMA’s Responding to COVID-19 page
How can I CONTRIBUTE to the Relief Fund?
This fund is made of donations from those of us with the means to help. And we can only offer as many grants as the fund allows. Please make your donation of any amount, and it will go directly to funding more early musicians in need.
Please donate using the form at the bottom of this page. If you prefer to mail a check, please make it payable to “Early Music America” with “Relief Fund” in the memo line, and send to Early Music America, 801 Vinial St., #300, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Your donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.