Music Performance Fund…Co-funding for your Next Free Concert...

What are MPF Concerts?

MPF programs may be performed by a single musician up to a full symphony orchestra. All musical styles qualify, including classical, country, rock,  renaissance, show tunes, Dixieland, disco, blues, jazz, Latin, Klezmer, or ethnic music. All MPF performances are always free and open to the public.

Over 25,000 individual performances are enjoyed each year by more than 20 million people, presented in venues as diverse as parks, shopping malls, churches, hospitals, nursing homes, and in schools. We're heard year 'round.

Counteracting Cuts in Arts Funding in Schools

We know that music education enhances a child's ability to read and learn. Responding to this situation, the MPF has made music education a major focus of its activities. In recent years 44% of all MPF audiences have been 18 or younger.

How is MPF Funded?

For every phonograph record and recorded tape produced in the U.S. and Canada, a small percentage of the sale is contributed to the Fund by the recording industries.

MPF invites co-sponsorship by other organizations. Since MPF is a tax-exempt public service organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, all co-sponsorship funding is tax deductible.

Together with other like-minded organizations, The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the American Federation of Musicians (AFM), we are striving in the public interest to develop audiences, enrich the professional talent pool and ensure the health of the music business.

What is the Criteria for an MPF Concert?

1. The performance must be open and free to the public.
2. The music must be the primary purpose for audience attendance
3. Performers must acknowledge the MPF as well as cosponsor support in all programs and publicity credits.
4. Credit to the MPF must be given.
5. Co-sponsorship fees are required.
6. Wages are based on current Local 655 wage rates.
7. All requests must be made at least 45-60 days in advance.
8. The Fund distributes grants to co-sponsors, who in turn are responsible for paying musicians.
   
9. These programs may not be audio recorded or filmed.

For more information, call the Local at (954) 527-4458.

So What can be an MPF Gig?

Concerts can take place at schools, malls, in the park,  and even in concert halls.  They can be educational concerts, jazz concerts, rock concerts, classical concerts, etc.

What will Musicians be Paid?

Musicians will be paid  at the appropriate Local scale, including cartage, doubling, and pension.

How About the Procedures & Paperwork?

1. Put together a program and assemble the performers.

2. Find a location, date, and cosponsor.

3. Obtain an Application Form (TF-2) and Cosponsor Commitment Form from the Local and return correctly completed with cosponsor check or municipal contract attached.

4. After being notified of approval, play the gig.  Be sure Payroll forms (documenting who played the gig, their mailing address,  and how much they will be paid) are filled out and returned to the Local.

That’s it!  The Fund mails checks directly to the performers.

For more information on the history of MPF, click here.