Percy Grainger Society Receives $88,000 NYSCA Capital Projects Grant

WHITE PLAINS, NY – The Percy Grainger Society is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a Capital Projects grant of $88,000 from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) for Fiscal Year 2025. This vital funding will support the critical exterior restoration of the historic Percy Grainger Home and Studio, ensuring the preservation of a unique cultural landmark in the heart of White Plains. This grant is part of a capital project funding announcement by NYSCA, which totals over $86M to 134 capital projects across New York.

Critical Restoration for a Historic Treasure
The NYSCA grant will allow the Society to address urgent preservation needs at the Grainger Home and Studio, a two-story American Foursquare house built in 1893 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The upcoming renovations will resolve longstanding water drainage issues and prevent further deterioration of the building’s exterior. Key project components include:
• Restoration and enlargement of gutter outlets and downspouts
• Repair and replacement of damaged eaves, soffits, rafter tails, and cedar shingles
• Repointing of the foundation where needed
• Restoration of porch elements and improvements to site drainage
These improvements are essential to preserving the building envelope and safeguarding both the historic structure and the unique cultural collections it houses.

Leadership and Community Support Kamen Tall Architects, PC, a firm specializing in historic preservation, has been retained to oversee all phases of the project, from site assessments and bid preparation to contractor coordination and construction oversight. Their expertise ensures the restoration will meet the highest standards of preservation. The Society’s ability to engage Kamen Tall Architects for the planning phase was made possible by the generosity of donors during Giving Tuesday 2024, whose contributions covered architectural fees and helped secure this competitive grant.

Percy Grainger Society's Home
Paul Jackson, President of the Percy Grainger Society, shared his excitement, “We are absolutely delighted and deeply honored to receive this grant from NYSCA. Percy Grainger’s home is a testament to his life, creativity, and the vibrant arts community we are proud to be part of. This restoration will not only protect a historic treasure, but will also ensure that future generations can experience the rich cultural legacy housed here. We are grateful to our supporters, donors and to NYSCA for believing in the importance of preserving this remarkable space.” Dr. Jackson leads the Society, whose mission is to promote the work and legacy of Percy Grainger with a membership community that preserves his historic house, encourages appreciation and performance of his music, and promotes a deeper understanding of the cultural, social, and economic context of his life and work. For more information on the PGS, please visit www.percygrainger.org, and follow the Percy Grainger Society's Facebook page, LinkedIn page, and on Instagram @PercyGraingerSociety.

Impact and Looking Ahead
This capital project directly supports the Society’s mission to preserve Percy Grainger’s legacy, expand access to cultural programming, and foster community engagement. The renovations will:
• Enhance accessibility and safety for all visitors
• Support a diverse range of future concerts, exhibitions, and educational events, and
• Strengthen the Society’s role as a regional cultural anchor.
With the support of NYSCA and the community, the Percy Grainger Society will address urgent preservation needs and continue its mission of education, performance, and community engagement for years to come.

About the New York State Council on the Arts
“Our arts and culture sector is a powerhouse, inspiring the world with innovation and creativity,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By investing in our museums, our theaters and our arts centers, we enrich our communities, strengthen local economies and improve tourism all over the State.”
NYSCA Executive Director Erika Mallin said, “These transformative projects improve communities, drive tourism and foster innovation in the field. Thanks to the Governor and the Legislature’s dedication to arts and culture, we are building a thriving future for our world-renowned creative sector. Congratulations to the Percy Grainger Society; NYSCA is a proud supporter of your contributions to New York’s arts and culture.”

The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award over $161 million in FY 2026, serving hundreds of arts organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York’s creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit www.arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA’s Facebook page, on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.