The LEAP (Learning from Elementary to Advanced Piano) Award is for Collier County, Bonita Springs, and Estero students to study piano for one year with a private teacher selected by the Music Foundation of Greater Naples. The award may be renewed one year at a time for up to two additional years based on the LEAP Committee's assessment of the student's progress and the recommendation of his or her private teacher.

The Award is intended for students ages 8 thru 14 whose families cannot afford private music lessons.  Income thresholds established by the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS - see below for income eligibility levels) will be used to determine eligibility.  Parents must provide a copy of the first 2 pages of your most recent income tax return.  You are welcome to redact Social Security numbers and other personal identifiable information prior to submitting your tax return.
 
Students must submit a recommendation and a personal essay stating why music is important to them, and how this award will be beneficial to the student.

The LEAP Committee will select applicants to be interviewed and to be given the opportunity to display their musical talent. Our expectations are that five to ten awards per year will be made depending upon the number of highly qualified applicants. Selection of music teachers and scheduling of lessons will be determined by the LEAP Scholarship Committee.

Winners of the LEAP Award will be notified by phone and/or letter. Parents must agree that (1) they will take proper care of their keyboard, (2) arrange weekly transportation to and from lessons for the child, and (3) provide a quiet time for the student to practice daily.