Survey Launched to Better Understand Welfare of Musicians in the U.S.

The Musicians Foundation has opened a survey to gain further insight into musicians’ needs to provide them greater support

Founded in 1914, New York City’s Musicians Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports thousands of musicians across all genres, helping them through financial difficulties and personal setbacks. 

To better understand the status quo and needs of musicians — and tailor its work to serve these needs — the Foundation has launched its US Musicians Survey. 

The survey, which takes less than five minutes to complete, will provide the Foundation with a robust sample size for it to make decisions about its programs, partnerships, advocacy efforts, and support artists. 

Results from almost 300 anonymous entries so far have confirmed issues — a large percentage of musicians have no health insurance, over 50% make less than $50,000/year, and 14% live below poverty levels. 

To participate in the survey, click here.

At the peak of the pandemic, the Musicians Foundation supported over 1,500 musicians nationally with micro-grants of $200 to $300. That program concluded in mid-2021, but it continues its regular Emergency Grant program, which supports an average of 140 to 150 musicians annually for an average of $1,100 to $1,300 for each grantee. 

“As fellow musicians, we know how vulnerable making a living as a professional musician is because of our interactions with friends and acquaintances,” the Foundation explained. “However, when we look at it more objectively, it’s really sad that such a noble and necessary profession requires so many sacrifices from those who pursue their call … Any feedback about the survey is greatly appreciated!”