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The Music in the Community Grant Program aims to enrich rural, tribal, veteran, disability, and other underserved communities through funding that supports new or existing music engagement, music education, music appreciation, or music performance activities in New Mexico.
Santa Fe, NM – The New Mexico Music Commission (NMMC) opens its second cycle of the “Music in the Community” Grant Program this month in support of music performance and activities across the state. Thirteen organizations have been providing educational programs, festivals, and performances to communities this past year through the first grant program offered.
“Last year’s grant program reached music performers, students, and audiences all over New Mexico, from Farmington to Artesia and beyond,” said Music Commission Chair Carlos Medina. “For this year, we’re hoping to get even more programs out to New Mexicans so they can enjoy, learn, and celebrate music.”
The Music in the Community Grant Program aims to enrich rural, tribal, veteran, disability, and other underserved communities through funding that supports new or existing music engagement, music education, music appreciation, or music performance activities in New Mexico.
Applicants can use the funding to support a variety of music programs, including musical performances in local venues or festivals, lectures or presentations about music-focused topics, musical instrument demonstrations, music-focused workshops, music exhibitions, or other similar projects that engage people of all ages.
Grant applications are being accepted through June 15, 2025 and selected proposals will receive $2,500, paid on a reimbursement basis after program activities are complete. For more information about the 2025-2026 grant requirements, and to apply, visit www.nmmusic.org/grants or contact Katherine Bruell, New Mexico Music Commission Administrator, at Katherine.bruell@dca.nm.gov or 505-487-0519.
During the 2024-2025 grant cycle, a variety of unique programs were held across the state. Carrizozo Music, Inc. hosted the New Mexico band Nosotros for a fun, free community concert, as well as a concert during World Concert Day Carrizozo. “We are very thankful for NMMC’s support, and this grant helped to make a great day exceptional,” said Cynthia Johnson from Carrizozo Music, Inc.
AfroMundo Festival, held in April of this year, used funding from their NMMC grant to support their opening concert, “At the Crossroads” with Grammy-nominated Cuban composer and jazz pianist, Elio Villafranca, as well as a closing concert with internationally known Afro-Haitian singer Riva Nyri Precil accompanied by New Mexico Afro-Haitian band Racine Kreyol. The concerts and festival were attended by culturally and ethnically diverse audiences representing New Mexico’s many cultures, said Loida Maritza Perez, Executive Director of AfroMundo.
About New Mexico Music Commission (NMMC)
NMMC, a governor-appointed body, protects, promotes, and preserves the musical traditions of New Mexico. The Commission consists of a cross-section of New Mexico citizens representing all facets of the state’s unique and diverse music industry. NMMC is administrated by New Mexico Arts, the state’s federally recognized arts agency and a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs.
