Tag: Foundation

The Amphion Foundation, Inc., founded in 1987 by Elliott and Helen Carter, was established to encourage the performance of contemporary concert music, particularly by American composers, through support to performing and presenting organizations that have demonstrated sustained artistic excellence, in addition to service organizations. The Foundation’s mission is carried out through its grant program. The Foundation is also the principal legatee under the wills of Elliott and Helen Carter and has a special interest in supporting significant projects devoted to the music of Elliott Carter.

The Alice M. Ditson Fund was established at Columbia University in 1940 with a bequest from Alice M. Ditson, the widow of the noted Boston music publisher Oliver Ditson. Mrs. Ditson’s will stipulated that income from the bequest be used for non-academic fellowships, public concerts, and publications in support of music. The initial Advisory Committee she appointed directed her intentions toward contemporary music. The Fund has continued this focus, with emphasis on funding of performances and recordings of music by emerging American composers.

In keeping with his lifelong devotion to contemporary music, Aaron Copland created the Fund and bequeathed to it a large part of his estate. The Fund was officially announced to the public in 1992. The Fund’s purpose is to encourage and improve public knowledge and appreciation of contemporary American music. The Fund operates three grant programs and also grants permission for the use of Copland’s music.