PRJC Grant Program Announcement

The Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research announces the 2020-2021 Grant Program

The Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research is a division of the Institute for Music Leadership at the Eastman School of Music. The Center’s research and programming emphasizes the 21st Century evolution of the innovative ensemble, influenced by both the symphony orchestra and the chamber music traditions, with a focus on creative, artist-centered ensembles that reflect new models of artistic innovation, organizational relationships, and operational sustainability.

The Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research Grant provides funding for research and innovative projects. The October 2020 and March 2021 Paul R. Judy Center Grant Funding will be reserved for Eastman students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the organizations they represent. Grants will range from $500-$2,000.  Grant proposals for $2,000 or less are most likely to be funded, but in special circumstances, higher grant proposals will be considered.

October 2020 and March 2021 Funding Priorities:

• The PRJC recognizes that the music profession must engage in systemic and transformational change on behalf of racial justice. The time is now for all musical arts organizations to take bold and decisive actions to enact structural change. The integrity of the entire music profession – from the individual musician to the largest orchestra – is dependent upon these actions. To that end, this PRJC grant program cycle will support innovative projects and research focused on anti-racism work in the musical arts ecosystem and the achievement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all elements of our profession. The program will prioritize projects and research that have potential for lasting and sustainable change in our field. 

Grant Program Categories:

• Research Support.  Interested individuals may submit a proposal to support a research project that aligns with the stated funding priorities. Funding may go toward travel, lodging, or other costs in order to complete the project.  [But not food]  Research papers/articles produced through a research grant will be eligible for publication in INNOVATE. MUSIC. LEAD., a semi-annual publication by the Eastman School of Music.
• Innovative Projects.  Individuals, ad hoc groups, and pre-formed ensembles may apply for support for a project that aligns with the stated funding priorities of the PRJC Grant Program.  This category is intentionally broad and may encompass a wide range of activities.  A few examples of projects include educational outreach programs, concerts, and recording projects.

Who Can Apply

• The October 2020 and March 2021 Paul R. Judy Center Grant Funding will be reserved for Eastman students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the organizations they represent. There is no restriction in terms of age or professional level.  Students are encouraged to apply.  Previous grantees are eligible to apply and receive awards each year; there is no restriction on the number of consecutive awards a group or individual can receive.  However, priority will be given to groups and individuals who have not previously received an award from this program.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE