About the grant

“Fourth River” is a collaboration between nonprofit The Rising Artist Foundation and established local music collective, Honcho. Named in homage to the city’s underground, essential aquifer; this program will help artists nourish and navigate their creative careers with clarity. Fourth River will offer a select group of emerging electronic musicians in Pittsburgh, PA with a grant, covered health insurance costs and six weeks of creative development sessions led by acclaimed international artist: Midland. Additionally, six educational music industry seminars featuring special guests will be presented for the general public at the historic Wood Street Galleries.

For 10 Pittsburgh residents — priority given to those from underrepresented backgrounds — from 08 October until 15 November 2025.

The in-person, 6-week program consists of 2 workshops per week. One on creative electronic music production led by Midland, the other a public seminar providing tools to navigate and demystify the music industry led by The Rising Artist Foundation and guests.

All grantees will receive a $1,500 stipend, music making tools and funds to cover healthcare costs for the duration of the program.

Applications are closed for this program

 

Our selection process

After the application window closes, an external applicant review committee will select 20 applicants for a video chat interview to be conducted in late June. From those 20, the ten finalists will be notified on 21 July 2025. The program will start the week of 06 OCT 2025. The period between selection and commencing the program is for grantees to become familiar with music software if they are not already.

Criteria for selection will be based upon:

• meeting the basic program requirement
• creating a strong and diverse cohort
• integrity of music
• complementary skill levels to guarantee adequate instruction for all

FINANCIAL OR TECHNICAL NEED OF ANY SORT SHOULD NOT BE A DETERRENT TO APPLICANTS