Reasons to Give

We depend on donations to help fund our programs.
Make a difference by giving to the Academy!

At the heart of what we do in the College of Visual and Performing Arts under the Academy is the motto that the Arts Create Community. We offer an array of events and arts experiences to extend our reach to the community, such as through annual scholarships and our instrument donation program, Instruments in the Attic. The Academy relies on donations to help support our mission to provide quality, accessible arts education. Below you will find information about our donation options and the work we do.

The Elizabeth Curtis Excellence Fund

The Academy’s accomplishments under Libby’s leadership are well known: a thriving arts organization; the thousands of students we reach every year; our national and international impact made through instrument donations. In addition to all of these, there are so many incredible things Libby has done quietly, behind the scenes. From building and nurturing her dedicated staff, to advocating for the Academy with the University and beyond, to developing longtime relationships with our talented instructors: these actions, large and small, are countless, and we will be forever grateful to her for all of them. 

Libby strives for excellence every step of the way. On behalf of the MCAA staff, we’re thrilled to share that we are renaming our scholarship fund in honor of Libby as she retires after 14 years of extraordinary leadership. The Elizabeth Curtis Excellence Fund for the Mason Community Arts Academy will allow us to carry on Libby’s dedication to accessible arts education, by providing funds to deserving students who might not otherwise be able to afford classes, summer programs, or private music instruction. We invite you to consider a gift in acknowledgement of Libby, helping us continue this important part of our mission going forward.

Instruments in the Attic

Instruments in the Attic makes music education accessible through community connection. The program recycles used instruments donated by generous community members to music programs and students in need – locally, nationally, and internationally.

This is all made possible by the thousands of instruments donated by community members seeking to give purpose to the instruments lying unused in their attics, garages, and storage closets. Instruments in the Attic accepts instruments of all types and conditions.

Mason Summer Band Camp

The Mason Summer Band Camp is an exciting, comprehensive musical experience for students in Grades 6-12. With an enrollment of over 100 students from 60 schools in DC, Maryland, and Virginia in its inaugural year, the Mason Summer Band Camp offers students two large ensemble experiences  – a Jr. High and a Sr. High Band – instrument-specific masterclasses, private lessons with Mason faculty, and a myriad of engaging social events only possible at Mason Nation! By adding the Residential program, Mason Summer Band Camp students get a chance to experience campus life, staying in our beautiful residence halls.

Your support will take this meaningful program to a whole new level as we strive to provide access to the Mason Summer Band Camp for as many students as possible. Thank you for helping us expand our reach and giving these young musicians a summer to remember!

Online donations are made via a George Mason University Foundation portal, and donors will receive an official Thank You letter from Mason.