Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund
The Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund is a permanently endowed trust managed and administered by the Percussive Arts Society. 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.
Applications will be accepted from current PAS members only. Awards will be granted based on artistic and educational quality, the content of the presentation, and the demonstrated ability of the presenter to carry out the proposal as submitted. Multiple proposals will be accepted for requested awards ranging from $250–$500.
Applications for 2026 will be open from February 2 through March 2.
If you have specific questions about the Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund, please contact Mandy Smith, PAS Programs Manager, at msmith@pas.org.
2025 Recipients
Drum City Community Drum Circle Day of the Drum (Night Out in the Parks): Presented as part of Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks, this project offers free Day of the Drum festivals featuring world percussion performances and interactive community drum circles in underserved neighborhoods. Led by Rhythm Evolution NFP, the events aim to promote cultural exchange, positive youth engagement, and community connection through accessible music making.
Drums Around the World at NYC Car-Free Earth Day: Presented as part of New York City’s Car-Free Earth Day Open Streets initiative, this all-percussion concert features authentic rhythms and music from cultures around the world. Led by members of Percussia, the performance aims to engage pedestrians and neighborhood audiences while celebrating global traditions through rhythm.
Mini-Steelpan Building Project: 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.
NDCP Live @5!: Held at the University of Maryland, this inaugural in-person gathering brings together diverse Youth and Emerging Artists for masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals, and a culminating performance featuring a new commissioned work. Led by NDCP professional members, the project aims to expand access, strengthen artistic development, and build a more inclusive percussion community.
Percuta The Tango Music of Pedro Giraudo: Hosted at a Queens Public Library branch, this concert presents the world premiere of a new tango-inspired chamber work for percussion and mixed ensemble by Argentine composer Pedro Giraudo. Performed by Percussia, the program aims to introduce community audiences to contemporary music through an accessible blend of tango and percussion-centered chamber music.
Rhythm and Divine Community Youth Drumline: 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.
Senior Services Steelpan Classes: 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.
