Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Arts for All Marathon?
It’s a fundraiser for the scholarship program at the Community School of Music and Arts and a challenge to local artists to give their creativity a workout.
Where and when will it happen?
In studios, living rooms, garages, and nightclubs near you for 26.2 days, starting on September 28 and ending on October 24, 2009.
Why 26.2 days?
Because a marathon race is 26.2 miles long. But 26 is an important number for other reasons … keep reading!
What is the Community School of Music and Arts?
For nearly 50 years, CSMA has provided instruction in music and arts to people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds through classes, private lessons, and other creative programs.
Why do you need my help?
The Arts for All Scholarship Fund makes it possible for people of limited income to attend classes, private lessons, and school break programs. In 2008, CSMA awarded $24,205 in scholarships to 81 recipients: 15 adults and 66 children.
I’m an artist/musician/dancer/writer. What do you want me to do?
Make a commitment to practice, rehearse, or create during the marathon days, and ask your patrons (family, friends, and fans) to make or pledge a donation to CSMA in honor of your efforts.
What kind of commitment?
Almost anything! Write a 26 line poem and ask your patrons to donate a dollar for each line. Make 26 tiny works of art. Practice your instrument for 26 minutes a day during the month. Do a gig. Or just get into the studio and work!
What’s in it for me?
First, you get to give your creativity a workout by committing to make art. Second, you experience the delight in helping others to learn the arts. Third, if you are a performing artist, we’ll list your performances in the Arts for All Marathon Calendar.
Where do I sign up?
Register online, where you can also download a Marathon Artist Kit, email us at marathon@csma-ithaca.org or call or visit the Community School of Music and Arts (607.272.1474) located in downtown Ithaca just east of the Commons (330 E. Martin Luther King Jr./State St.) and ask for a Marathon Artist Kit.
I’m not an artist but I want to help. What can I do?
Support your local musicians, artists, writers, actors, and dancers by making a tax-deductible donation in any amount to CSMA honoring their efforts.
donate online

NOTE: On the first page you must click the "Update Total" button after entering your donation total; on the "Review Your Donation" page, you can enter the name of the artist you are sponsoring:


or send checks to:

CSMA Arts for All Marathon
330 E. Martin Luther King Jr./State St.
Ithaca, NY 14850