The Pratt Music Foundation was established in 1996 in memory of Dr. Ted Pratt, an Illinois State University physics professor. He instilled in his children a love of classical music and when he passed away, his family and friends established this Foundation as a memorial to promote classical music education in Bloomington-Illinois.

His wife, Dr. Mildred Pratt, was instrumental in founding and supporting the Foundation until her death in 2012. The Pratt Music Foundation now honors both of their legacies.

The program works in conjunction with Illinois Wesleyan University and the Share the Music Program to provide music education, instruments, instruction to youth in grades 2-12. It supports students in the Greater Bloomington-Normal area who demonstrate talent, motivation, and financial need.

Scholarships provide music lessons for the academic year. Lessons are taught by instructors of the Illinois Wesleyan Music Preparatory Program.

Funded through endowments, grants, and individual donations, the Foundation is a  501(c)3 non-profit through our affiliation with Illinois-Wesleyan University.

The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors and operates on a 100% volunteer basis.