The 2026 WCPE Education Fund Awards
September 29, 2026
Norse Brewing Company • Wake Forest, North Carolina
The WCPE String Quartet from the North Carolina Chamber Music Institute.
|
$16,100 in 2026 Education Fund grants |
7 organizations supporting young musicians |
On September 29, The Classical Station brought together members, staff, announcers, and Education Fund grant recipients at Norse Brewing Company in Wake Forest. The occasion was a chance to thank our membership, present this year’s grants, and enjoy a free concert by musicians from the North Carolina Chamber Music Institute (NCCMI).
Between the presentations, live music, refreshments, and conversations, the afternoon offered a welcome opportunity to meet the people behind the programs—and to celebrate a shared commitment to classical music.
Meet our 2026 grant recipients
This year’s Education Fund grants support seven organizations serving young musicians in our communities. Together, their programs create opportunities to study, rehearse, and perform.
-
Burlington Boys’ Choir
Choral training that develops young singers’ voices, musicianship, and experience performing together. -
Kidznotes
Group music instruction and ensemble experiences that help young people build skills and community. -
North Carolina Chamber Music Institute
Small-ensemble coaching, master classes, and performance opportunities that develop musical and leadership skills. -
Raleigh Music Collective
Accessible string education, including tuition-free classes and ensembles for violin, viola, and cello students. -
SKJAJA
Scholarships, instrument access, and music mentorship that help remove financial barriers to participation. -
Triangle Brass Band
Youth brass and percussion ensembles offering musical training and performance in the British brass band tradition. -
Triangle Youth Music
Orchestras, jazz bands, smaller ensembles, and beginning violin instruction for young musicians at different stages of their development.
The music behind the mission
A free concert from NCCMI
Live chamber music brought the Education Fund’s purpose into focus.
The WCPE String Quartet’s performance gave guests an opportunity to hear young musicians making music together—and to enjoy the kind of experience our members help make possible.
The connection runs deep: the quartet was established at NCCMI in 2015 through a WCPE Education Fund grant. Its musicians receive scholarships and opportunities to record, take part in radio interviews, and perform professionally.
Learn about NCCMI’s leadership ensembles →
Celebrating this year’s grants
Presenting the grants was an opportunity to recognize the organizations putting our members’ generosity to work. Watch a moment from the afternoon’s presentations below.
A moment from the grant presentations at Norse Brewing Company. Approximately 1 minute, 22 seconds.
Watch the presentation on YouTube →
Our members make it possible
The Education Fund begins with people who believe that young musicians deserve opportunities to learn. Our members help turn that belief into support for lessons, instruments, workshops, and scholarships.
An afternoon to connect with fellow music lovers and celebrate our community.
It was a pleasure to gather in person, share refreshments, meet our grant recipients, and thank the people who sustain this work. To everyone who joined us—and to every member who supports the Education Fund—thank you.
More moments from the celebration
Welcoming our guests and recognizing the work of the Education Fund.
Good conversations, familiar faces, and new connections.
Help the next generation find its voice
Our thanks to our members, this year’s grant recipients, and NCCMI’s musicians for making the celebration possible. The music continues through your generosity.
Explore the WCPE Education Fund →
To learn more about supporting music education, contact Member Services at 919-556-5178.