The AACTMAD Apprenticeship Program is designed to encourage and enable AACTMAD members to advance their skills in traditional music, dance or song. The program offers assistance to members who are committed to developing their skills, but who may need financial aid to continue working toward their goals. Applicants of all skill levels will be considered for the apprenticeship; financial need is a consideration. Mentors must be well established and have a solid, trackable background and teaching experience in their art. Applicants chose a Mentor with whom they would like to study over the course of one year.  

The application form (below) is completed by both Apprentice and Mentor and then submitted together. The application includes a proposed study plan and a schedule, developed by both the Apprentice and Mentor. The Apprenticeship period is one year and can be spread out over the entire year or be concentrated to a shorter period. A minimum of 40 hours of instruction is required; more is completely acceptable. Mentors will receive $2,000, half at the midpoint of the Apprenticeship and half at completion of the course of study and submission of a final report. There is an expectation of a mid-apprenticeship report from both Apprentice and Mentor, as well as a final report, due the last day of the award cycle. Up to two Apprenticeships will be awarded each year.

Application deadline: May 1st
Apprenticeship begins ends: June 1st
Final report due: May 31st of following year

Apprentice applicants must be members of AACTMAD at the time of submission.  If you are not already a member of the organization, please go to https://aactmad.org/membership or obtain a Membership Scholarship.

While filling out this application, please be as specific as possible. Your information will be reviewed by members of the Grants & Scholarship Committee who will select the awardees based on the information provided here.