Erin Walker
Erin Walker Bliss is a Senior Lecturer in Ethnomusicology at the University of Kentucky with a DMA in Percussion Performance and a PhD in Musicology/Ethnomusicology. Her research has been featured at SEM, PAS, IASPM, CMS, and Berklee City Music Network conferences. Erin is committed to promoting equitable access to childhood music education. She is the Executive Director of the Central Music Academy (CMA), a nonprofit offering free music programs for underserved youth. Inspired by drum circle facilitators' workshops, community arts education conferences, and mentorship from John Yost and Rhythm Revolution, Erin developed CMA’s group drumming program. Erin has reviewed grants for the National Endowment for the Arts, South Arts, and Lexington-Fayette County. She has consulted on philanthropy and leadership for the Martin School of Public Policy, Eastern Kentucky University, the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, Texas Tech University, and numerous regional arts nonprofits.
Grantwriting for Musicians: Leveraging AI to Enhance Funding Requests
Session Description:
This session provides practical, AI-supported grant-writing strategies to enhance proposals and align with funder expectations. Drawing on my experience reviewing grants and leading fundraising efforts at the Central Music Academy, which has raised over $2 million to support private lessons and outreach programs, the session will explore ways to find funding, write strong proposals, and build lasting support for music initiatives.
Topics include:
Finding Grants: Matching goals with grant priorities at local, state, and national levels. Demonstrating the use of tools such as Instrumentl, Foundation Directory, and Guidestar.
Writing Clearly: Collecting data, quotes, and examples to show impact. Explaining goals, outcomes, and community benefits in a way that appeals to funders.
Using AI Tools: Applying ChatGPT, Gemini, Grammarly, and Notion to improve writing and evaluate proposals. Building custom GPTS, using ChatGPT Canvas to plan projects, and conducting deep research.
Topics include:
Finding Grants: Matching goals with grant priorities at local, state, and national levels. Demonstrating the use of tools such as Instrumentl, Foundation Directory, and Guidestar.
Writing Clearly: Collecting data, quotes, and examples to show impact. Explaining goals, outcomes, and community benefits in a way that appeals to funders.
Using AI Tools: Applying ChatGPT, Gemini, Grammarly, and Notion to improve writing and evaluate proposals. Building custom GPTS, using ChatGPT Canvas to plan projects, and conducting deep research.
Session Category:
- Education
Date:
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time:
12:00 PM
Location:
Room 201
Session Type:
Professional Development
Session Format:
Live
