Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund 2026 Grant Recipients

Congratulations to the 2026 recipients of Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund Grants. The purpose of the Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund is to provide funding for community-based percussion programs in underrepresented neighborhoods. Utilizing the diverse group of PAS educators and performers, these programs will be presented at no charge to participants in accessible locations such as schools, community centers, parks, senior living facilities, or libraries.

Rhythm & Divine Community Youth Drumline – Chelsea Young

Based in Jackson, MS, this program provides structured percussion and drumline instruction for youth ages 4 to 17, with a focus on underserved and neurodiverse students. Led by experienced music educators, the initiative aims to build musical skills, discipline, teamwork, and pathways to future academic and performance opportunities.

Chicago Senior Rhythm Event  – Eric Swanson

This program offers weekly, accessible drum circle sessions for local seniors in Chicago, IL. Led by an experienced facilitator, sessions combine drumming, movement, and guided reflection to promote wellness, reduce isolation, and build community.

Community Music – Maria Flurry

This hands-on program in Cottonwood, AZ invites families to create music together using tuned flower pots and mallets. Led by manos Percussion, participants learn rhythm, listening, and ensemble skills as they build toward a collaborative performance. Designed for children and caregivers, the program fosters creativity, confidence, and community connection through accessible, participatory music-making.

Mini-Steelpan Building Project – Jean Raabe

Offered through Bloomingdale and Pullman Elementary Schools and a summer steelpan camp in Michigan, this hands-on project engages students in building and performing on steelpans as part of music and STEM learning. Led by an experienced steelpan artist, the program aims to deepen cultural understanding, creativity, and community connection through Trinidad and Tobago’s musical traditions.

Senior Services Steelpan Classes – Jean Raabe

This program provides free, adapted steelpan classes for seniors in Van Buren County, MI, taught by a board-certified music therapist at multiple Senior Services locations. The initiative aims to promote wellness, social connection, and cultural enrichment, culminating in an intergenerational community performance.

Freedom Arts & Education Center Emerging Percussionists – Andrew Gibson

Providing weekly percussion lessons to youth in St. Louis, MO, this program aims to develop musical skills, confidence, and discipline through ensemble performance. Led by FAEC staff percussionists, the project promotes arts education and community engagement.

Music Is For Everyone – Jen Martinez-Bre

This program delivers a free, interactive percussion concert to adults with developmental disabilities at a local education center in Kendall, FL. Led by a professional ensemble, participants engage in hands-on music-making, instrument exploration, and collaborative performance experiences. By removing transportation barriers and expanding access, the project aims to restore inclusive arts engagement and foster creativity, confidence, and connection through live music.

Interested in starting a community-based percussion project in your area? The Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund’s next grant round opens in the spring of 2027.