This program has been established in honor of PMEA Executive Director Emerita Margaret Bauer.

Purpose

To provide grants to qualifying PMEA members who require funding for professional development, resources, equipment, or creative projects which will enhance music instruction, student learning and forward the mission of PMEA.

Requirements

• Applicant must be a current active PMEA member and have been a member for at least one year prior to the grant request.
• Applicants must complete the application form. No incomplete forms will be considered.
• Applicants will be interviewed by the selection committee as part of the application process.
• If selected for a grant, the recipient will submit a report to the committee within thirty days of completion of the professional development or project and write an article for the PMEA News based on the results.
• If a request is denied it may resubmitted the following year. Members are eligible to apply for one grant every five years.

Funding

The maximum amount awarded for a single grant will be $1000.00. Grant money may not be used for transportation or hotel costs associated with conference attendance.

There are two main submission periods: 

Fall: Submissions must be received by November 1; expect notification around December 15

Spring: Submissions must be received by April 1; expect notification around May 15

For - Pennsylvania High School Seniors who have been accepted at a college or university to major in music education. A maximum of 20 students will be chosen from the applications submitted.

Purpose - To present a series of experiences within these students’ chosen career path, in a professional setting.
  Students will be making connections with their future peers and mentors, creating a support system for their career preparation, and having opportunities to discuss and reflect on all aspects of their future careers with college music education majors and professional educators.

When - Running concurrently with the 2025 PMEA Annual Conference, April 9-12 at the Kalahari Resort & Convention Center. The program will begin on Wednesday evening, April 9 and conclude by lunchtime on Saturday, April 12.

Requirements--Students should be in high academic standing. Applications will be chosen based on academic achievement, participation in musical activities and courses, participation in the community and leadership experience.

Cost - $450 (includes conference registration, chaperoned housing and meals at the convention center during the event) 

To be paid by sponsoring school district, or booster group, or possible scholarship from student’s TRI-M chapter or PMEA District, or individual family. A student accepted for this program, with his/her sponsoring HS director/PMEA member’s help and advice, is responsible for payment of fee.

Evidence of acceptance into a college program for music education, letters of recommendation, personal statement, copy of grades (transcript), cumulative average and class rank, and sponsorship by the PMEA HS director are required in the online application. *If a decision has not yet been made and/or the student is deciding between multiple schools, documentation should be included for each school being considered. If acceptance has not yet been received, attach proof of application to an accredited college, university or conservatory for the study of Music Education.

Application Deadline – Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Conflict of Opportunity - If a student chosen for this program also qualifies for an All-State performing ensemble, they will have the opportunity to choose which program to accept.

Questions? Please email fmehs@pmea.net