LEAP:
Learning from Elementary to Advanced Piano
and
LEAP Forward
The LEAP program allows gifted and motivated students ages 8 to 14 from families with limited resources to achieve the intellectual and social benefits of learning to play the piano.
This program is made possible through the generosity of Anne & John Roberts and Myra & Van Williams, longtime MFGN supporters.
The LEAP Forward program is for students ages 15-18 years of age.
About the LEAP Program
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 respond to the 3 questions on the application form.
The LEAP Committee reviews applications all throughout the year (there is no set deadline for application.) The LEAP Scholarship Committee will select an appropriate piano instructor which reflect the individual needs of each student.
Winners of the LEAP Award will be notified by phone and/or email. Parents must agree that (1) they will arrange weekly transportation to and from lessons for the child, and (2) provide a quiet time for the student to practice daily.
There is an "End of Year Recital" at the end of the academic school year. We REQUIRE each student to participate. This is your moment to share your talents and all you have learned with an appreciative audience!
Our LEAP Forward program is for students who are 15-18 years of age. All requirements are the same as the LEAP program.
-
Completed application online - see below.
-
Letter of recommendation from either a school music teacher, professional musician, or minister of music - in PDF format to upload below.
-
A copy of the Students grades from the most recently completed school year.
-
If the student has prior piano experience or lessons, please submit a video performing a short selection no more than 3 minutes in length.
-
If the student has no prior piano experience, then an interview will be required.
-
There will be no registration fee for this award competition.
-
The first 2 pages of the Parent's most recent income tax return. You can upload the tax return in the online application, or email it to Joe Duffy at joe.duffy@musicfoundationnaples.org.
Complete Application Online
How to create a PDF
Income Eligibility
The table below is from the Florida Department of Heath Child Care Program (i.e., free and reduced lunch program for the State of Florida.) We will consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis if your family's income falls outside of the ranges below. Please contact us for a confidential discussion about your situation. MFGN requires verification of income through a review of the Parent/Guardian most recent tax return.
Florida Department of Heath
Income Eligibility Guidelines
For free and reduced-price meals
Effective July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026
Please reach out to Betty Pursley or Cathy Pflieger if you would like to get more information on our LEAP Program.
​
Betty Pursley, LEAP Program Coordinator
Email: bettypursley312@gmail.com
Phone: (239) 682-3516
