Action for Artists (AFA) is a new public nonprofit dedicated to providing performing artists with financial assistance, tools, and artistic and professional mentorship.

Founder and Chairperson William Hicks started this journey back in 2004. Through years of working with professional musicians and emerging artists alike, Hicks wanted to start an organization that would cater to young musicians, specifically to those needing professional training to work towards competition or professional level.

Today, an array of artists, business people, and classical music experts comprise AFA’s Board of Directors, Honorary Board, and Advisory Board; Samuel Ramey, Cheryl Studer, Jake Heggie, Bill Schuman, and Robert Lombardo to name a few.

Mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, member of AFA’s Honorary Board, was quoted in an official press release, saying, “It is a joy to support the noble efforts of Action for Artists in their providing support for those very special performing artists at the beginning of their careers. These young and talented individuals need help more than ever as they struggle through the post-pandemic world. Thank heaven they have the support of an organization so beautifully put together by William Hicks!”

Soprano Ariana Maloney has been awarded the first artist grant from Action for Artists, the Daniel Ferro Scholarship Fund Award. AFA has established various sources of funding and additional awards and grants, including The Nico Castel Scholarship Fund, The New Works Development Fund, and The Action For Artists General Fund.