Over the past year, we’ve watched Amplifi artists step onto bigger stages, expand their audiences, and deepen their creative impact in meaningful ways. In 2023 we launched our first grant program with a simple if ambitious goal: to amplify Napa Valley as a hub for inspiring cultural experiences through live performance. Since then, we’ve successfully completed three rounds of grantmaking, expanded artist visibility and built partnerships across Napa Valley and beyond that have benefitted more than 1,500 non-Amplifi artists through community programming and performance platforms. We’re humbled and grateful by the wonderful opportunities and partnerships that have helped strengthen Napa Valley’s growing arts ecosystem. 

Along the way, we’ve learned a great deal about community and artist needs, and reflected on where we can build the greatest long-term impact. Having served over 45,000 audience members through performances, programs and community experiences across 70 live events, our successes reinforce something important: our greatest impact happens when we invest deeply in artists and audiences.

From Fellows attending MUSEXPO and performing at St. Helena’s 150th Anniversary celebration, to debuting original orchestral pieces with Symphony Tierra and hitting world class Opera stages, these talented artists are creating new pathways for community engagement through music. A few Fellow spotlights this year include:

✔️ Oke McFly touring with Too Short
✔️ Richie Bridges launching “Sonidos del Barrio,” Thursday mornings on MegaMix Radio
✔️ Coyote Creates debuting her original book, Silly Human, alongside a thematic song
✔️ New music and original works from Mattea , Richie Bridges, and Jackson U’Ren 

We’re seeing firsthand what happens when emerging artists are given meaningful support, visibility, and community. We’ve also continued creating opportunities for the next generation through inspirational experiences like our Black Violin Sound Check & Concert event for local students and the A Cappella Extravaganza featuring Six Appeal.

As Napa Valley continues to grow as a destination for live music (check out the City of Napa’s recent music festival impact report), Amplifi has spent time reflecting on how to better serve and deepen that impact even further to support emerging musicians. Because of this, Amplifi will not be opening a new round of Fellowships, grants, or sponsorship applications this Spring as we refine and strengthen the next phase of our programming.

This is an intentional step forward centered on building a stronger, more focused ecosystem for artists across Napa Valley and beyond. We’re excited about what’s ahead and expect to share more information regarding future application opportunities in late Fall.

In the meantime, we remain deeply committed to supporting our current Fellows while continuing to expand artist visibility, community engagement, and meaningful industry connections. 

🫶🏽Thank you for continuing to grow with us as we shape Amplifi’s next chapter.

FAQ

When will Amplifi Fellowship applications re-open? Amplifi is currently refining its Fellowship program. While Amplifi will not open a new round of applications this Spring, we will share updates on the next phase of our programming by late Fall 2026.

So what exactly is changing? Amplifi is refining our programs from organizational and individual giving for all performing arts to incubating emerging musicians and connecting with audiences. Meanwhile, Amplifi remains actively engaged in artist development, cultural programming, community events, and industry opportunities while we shape the next phase of our work. Check out our new calendar (coming soon!) for the next event! More information on Amplifi 2.0 will be announced in the Fall.

Will current Fellows still receive support? Amplifi remains committed to actively supporting our current Fellows through mentorship, paid performance opportunities, professional development, and industry exposure.

Why is Amplifi making this change? We want to make the greatest impact with the resources available. Over the past several years, 19 of Amplifi’s 21 Fellowship artists have been musicians, making it clear where we can create the greatest impact. By focusing exclusively on music, we can invest more deeply in emerging artists through mentorship, industry access, professional development, and live performance opportunities. While we remain passionate about the broader arts community, this refined focus allows us to deliver higher-quality support and stronger outcomes for both artists and audiences.

How can I get involved? 

1. Emerging Artists – Apply. Perform. Connect.
   Applications for the Amplifi Fellowship open annually for emerging musicians ready to take the next step in their creative and professional journey. Whether you’re a songwriter, composer, vocalist, producer, or instrumentalist, we’re building a stronger music community together.
2. Established Artists/Industry & Community Partners – Build the future of music with us.
   Amplifi partners with venues, businesses, educators, media professionals, and industry leaders who believe in developing local talent. Share your experience and connect with Amplifi as a mentor, speaker, guest artist, and more! Together, we can create more opportunities for artists and a more vibrant cultural community.
3. Donors – Invest in artists and a robust music scene in Napa Valley.
   Your support helps provide mentorship, professional development, industry access, and live performance opportunities for emerging musicians. Contributions can take many forms, from financial gifts to venue partnerships, hospitality support, and in-kind donations.
4. Audiences – Discover what’s next.
   Attend events, follow our artists, and experience the incredible talent emerging from Napa Valley’s music scene. Every ticket purchased, performance attended, and story shared helps create opportunities for local musicians.
5. Volunteers – Help bring our thriving music community to life.
   From artist showcases to community events, volunteers play a critical role in creating memorable experiences for audiences and musicians alike. Join us behind the scenes and help strengthen Napa Valley’s music ecosystem.

How can I stay connected? Follow Amplifi on social media (@amplifinapavalley) to never miss a beat of the action, subscribe to our mailing list, and continue engaging with upcoming artist performances, events, and community programming. It takes a village–thank you for being a part of ours!