Raising the Funds

“In the long run men hit only what they aim at. Therefore, though they should fail immediately, they had better aim at something high.”

-Henry David Thoreau, Walden.

In her book The Greater Good. How Philanthropy Drives the American Economy and Can Save Capitalism, Dr. Claire Gaudiani makes the case that America is the richest nation in the world because of our generosity. Imagine what Louisville would look like if every building funded by an individual donor were suddenly to disappear. What would hospitals, schools, performance venues and institutions of higher learning look like without these gifts? Imagine a world without all the medicines, inventions and research funded by private donations! From its earliest days, American culture has been firmly rooted in the ever-fertile soil of philanthropy. As beneficiaries of this private giving, we in the music community have a responsibility to seek out donors and cultivate long-lasting relationships with them. It's not just about money. It's about the future of art and music in our community.

The piano itself was invented as the result of private patronage. Since that time, musical institutions have relied on support from private donors, foundations, businesses and grass-roots philanthropic organizations. As musicians, we have a unique and very effective tool to attract this support: Music changes peoples lives. If we truly believe that music study is the key to our students' success in the global economy, then we can make a strong case for donors and philanthropic organizations to embrace. It is incumbent upon us to clearly articulate our belief in our cause and to cultivate long-lasting friendships with those who can make our dreams reality.

Drawing from over 40 years of experience, Gist Piano Center has the necessary tools and resources to help you effectively communicate your need, to create a viable plan and to establish a fruitful and mutually-rewarding relationship with potential donors. We'll work with your development staff to document your piano assets, to produce and refine your message, and to generate a consistent promotional campaign that will cultivate community support.

Citizens want to give back to the community that helped them achieve success. They want to create a life-long legacy that will touch the lives of countless students and provide others with a vibrant musical future. It's our American tradition and we can help you achieve it.