Classical Commissioning Program 2026

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Classical Commissioning Program.

Donor Name: Chamber Music America

State: All States

County: All Counties

Type of Grant: Grant

Deadline: 09/18/2025

Size of the Grant: $500,000 to $1 million

Grant Duration: Less than 1 Year

Details:

Chamber Music America’s Classical Commissioning program began in 1984. Since then, CMA has funded nearly 300 new works providing grants to U.S.-based ensembles and presenters whose programming includes Western European and/or non-Western classical and contemporary music.

CMA’s 2026 Classical Commissioning program is being strategically redesigned to address this urgent gap, centering support around organizations and artists most impacted by the loss of NEA funding. CMA support through this grant may be used for general operating support for these performances/programs.

Funding Information

Grant awards will range based on budget size:

Approximately sixteen grants of $2,500 for ensembles with budgets below $249,999
Approximately seven grants of $5,000 for organizations with budgets up to $750,000

Grant Period

December 1, 2025-through December 31, 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

All applicants must:

Provide a copy of their 2025 NEA funding termination letter as proof of rescission
Show proof of 501(c)3 status
Be a CMA member at the Organization level
Have completed any classical/contemporary CMA-funded project, if applicable
Have no overdue reports or financial obligations to CMA
Agree to acknowledge CMA in all programs and press materials

Ensembles

An ensemble is eligible if it:

Is based in the U.S. or its territories (the leader/primary member is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident)
Primarily performs Western European and/or non-Western classical and contemporary music
Consists of 2-10 musicians, either as a fixed roster, or a flexible collective (duos must perform as equal partners and publicize themselves as a duo)

Presenters

A presenter is eligible if it: