Build Your Core Programs

Grades 3-8

Build your instrumental music programs with a Band, Strings, Mariachi, or Sonidos Latinos Grant.

The Save The Music Core Grant program – Band, Strings, Mariachi, or Sonidos Latinos – restores and grows instrumental music in public schools across the country by providing grants of new musical instruments, music stands, method books, and program services valued at $64,100.

To receive a Core Grant, districts must commit to funding and hiring a certified music teacher, schedule instrumental music class during the regular school day, provide a dedicated classroom space for music, and budget for the music program’s maintenance and supplies. The Foundation maintains a partnership with the district until instrumental music is in place at every eligible school.

Core Grant Requirements:
  • The school must be a public elementary or middle school in the United States.
  • The school does not currently have an instrumental music program, or the instrumental music program lacks instruments and supplies.
  • The school or district must commit to hiring and funding at least one certified music teacher.
  • The school must schedule instrumental music as part of the regular school day, offering a minimum of 45 minutes of instruction per student enrolled in the instrumental music program per week.
  • The school must provide a classroom space dedicated to instrumental music instruction.
  • The school must provide adequate, secure storage space for the instruments and equipment.
  • The school or district must accept full responsibility for the maintenance of the donated instruments and equipment.
  • The grant recipient must complete annual progress reports about the instrumental music program and allow representatives from the Foundation to visit.

To learn more about our granting process, please visit our FAQ page.