Frequently asked questions

Dreamers Instrument Access Grant: by mid May 2027Dreamer All Access Grant Round 1: by mid March 2027Dreamer All Access Grant Final Decisions: by mid May 2027James Miles Musical Innovation Grant Round 1: by mid March 2027 James Miles Musical Innovation Grant Final Decisions: by mid May 2027

No, BVF Inc. grant funds can only be applied to current programs or future programs where the applicant has been accepted.

If you have additional questions please send an email to info@blackviolinfoundation.org.

No. Applications are final once submitted, so please review everything carefully before hitting submit.

Yes — a video submission is a required part of the application. Applications without a  video will not be considered complete and cannot be reviewed.

Videos can be submitted via [YouTube/Vimeo link, direct upload, etc.]. Please make sure the link is set to "public" or "unlisted" (not private) so reviewers can access it.

We care more about content than production value. A video filmed on a smartphone is perfectly fine as long as we can clearly see and hear you.

Yes. If awarded a grant, you'll receive an email with your award amount and a program identification form. This form must be completed by November 30, 2027, or you will forfeit the award.

Yes. You must live in the United States to apply for any BVF grant. However, the grant itself can be used toward a program located anywhere.

The Dreamer Instrument Access Grant provides an advanced student placement instrument. These instruments are carefully selected to give developing musicians a high-quality playing experience suited to advanced study and performance.

The Dreamer Instrument Access Grant provides full-size violins and violas, ranging from size 14–16.

Applicants only receive the amount awarded. Any additional program fees are the applicant's responsibility.

No, remaining funds are not distributed to applicants.

No. BVF Inc. grant funds can only be used for program attendance costs, and all funds are paid directly to the program the applicant is attending.

Yes, applicants are allowed to apply to more than one grant or instrument access opportunity.

If you receive a grant, you agree to allow Black Violin Foundation, Inc. to use your name, image, likeness, and a short biography on our social media, website, and other promotional materials for future scholarship solicitation and/or advertising.

Not at this time. Students are responsible for applying for their own funds to attend programs and lessons.

Yes. The Dreamer All Access Grant can be applied toward up to 2 different programs, and the James Miles Musical Innovation Grant can be applied toward up to 3 different programs.

Yes, past BVF Inc. grant recipients are encouraged to apply again.

If your program is canceled, or you're unable to attend, please contact us directly at info@blackviolinfoundation.org.

Unfortunately, video submission is a major part of our selection process. If you're unable to submit a video at this time, we'd encourage you to apply during our next grant cycle.

Yes. The applicant must be the clear focus and primary subject of the video, allowing reviewers to easily see and evaluate their individual talent and abilities. If other people are included, the applicant should still remain as the main focus of the video.