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.
Check back in early 2027 for the 2027 application timeline.
If you have specific questions about the Zildjian Family Opportunity Fund, please contact Mandy Smith, PAS Programs Manager, at msmith@pas.org.
2026 Recipients
Community Music: 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.
Freedom Arts & Education Center Emerging Percussionists: 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.
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.
Music Is For Everyone: 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.
Rhythm & 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.
Rhythm Based Event: 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.
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.
