Let The Music Play Grant Program application now open supporting music education for the next generation

American Family Insurance, in partnership with Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. (MWF), is excited to announce the opening of applications for the annual Let The Music Play Grant Program. Local nonprofit organizations and school-based music education programs are encouraged to apply by October 31, 2026.

Through the Let The Music Play Grant Program, Milwaukee youth gain access to meaningful music education experiences that help develop lifelong skills. Since its launch, the program has awarded more than 60 grants to local schools and organizations, opening the door for thousands of students to discover and connect through music.

Grant funding has supported the purchase of instruments, sound and recording equipment, cultural dance attire, music technology resources, and other essential tools that make music education more accessible and impactful. Past recipients include Bembé Drum & Dance, Girls Rock MKE, Milwaukee Jazz Orchestra, Milwaukee High School of the Arts, and TRUE Skool, among others.

“Music education provides students opportunities to discover their talents inside and outside the classroom,” said Sarah Pancheri, president and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “As we celebrate the ninth year of this program with American Family Insurance, we're proud to continue supporting initiatives that create opportunities for Milwaukee’s youth through music.”

“Our support of the Let the Music Play Program reflects our commitment to community initiatives that strengthen and enrich the lives of young people through the power of music,” said Sherina Smith, American Family Insurance chief marketing officer. “As we inspire, protect and restore the dreams of our customers every day, we're proud to support these talented young artists, the organizations that help them thrive, and their dedication to pursuing their passions. We encourage them to apply for these grants and continue expanding access to music opportunities.”

The Let The Music Play Grant Program is open to nonprofit organizations and schools that serve Milwaukee County youth through music-based programming. Applications are welcome from a wide range of disciplines, including band, orchestra, jazz, choir, musical theater, dance, and other creative arts initiatives that incorporate music education.

For more information or to apply, visit Summerfest.com/Let-The-Music-Play.

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MWF media contact:
Julie Dieckelman
414-270-6517
jdieckelman@summerfest.com

About American Family Insurance 
American Family Insurance based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 226 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

About Milwaukee World Festival, Inc.
Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. is an independent, private 501(c)(3) corporation founded in 1965 that produces Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance, a three-weekend music festival featuring over 600 artists across 12 stages. Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. also maintains and improves Henry Maier Festival Park, a permanent festival park, located on 75 acres of Lake Michigan shoreline in Milwaukee, WI. Henry Maier Festival Park hosts millions of visitors through a variety of ethnic and cultural festivals, concerts, walks, runs, and other special events. The mission of the organization is to promote an understanding of different ethnic cultures and celebrate the unique histories and traditions of various nationalities, bolster civic pride and provide a showcase for performing arts, activities, and recreation for the public and offer employment opportunities for the youth of the community. For more details, visit MilwaukeeWorldFestival.com, Facebook.com/MilwaukeeWorldFestival, or Instagram: @MilwaukeeWorldFestival.