Cereal City Concert Band Lands $20,000 State Arts Grant

The Cereal City Concert Band has received a $20,000 grant from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts to expand its programming and increase community engagement throughout the Battle Creek area.

The grant, awarded through the MACC compliance review process, was one of 678 applications competing for fiscal year 2026 funding. More than $12.4 million was distributed to over 430 organizations across Michigan.

Local Support Makes It Possible

Organizations receiving MACC grants must match the funds with other public and private dollars. The Cereal City Concert Band secured support from numerous local businesses and organizations, including:

• Battle Creek Community Foundation
• New Holland Brewing Co.
• Travel with Scott & Curtis
• Griffin Grill & Pub
• Heritage Assisted Living
• Lakeview Assisted Living Community
• W.K. Kellogg MSU Biological Station
• Northpointe Woods Senior Living Community
• Battle Creek Tile & Mosaic
• Kellogg Community Credit Union
• Shari Rarick School of Dance
• Nicholas VanDeMoortel DDS

The band also receives significant volunteer support from community members and musicians.

About the Cereal City Concert Band

Founded in 1987, the Cereal City Concert Band is a nonprofit community ensemble dedicated to bringing live concert band music to the greater Battle Creek area. The organization is committed to artistic excellence, community service, and providing performance opportunities for musicians of all backgrounds.

The National Endowment for the Arts has distributed more than $20 million in federal funding throughout Michigan over the past five years, supporting arts and cultural organizations that enrich communities across the state.

What the Grant Will Support

The $20,000 grant will help the band expand its programming, enhance performance opportunities, and increase community engagement. The MACC compliance review process ensures that taxpayers and residents throughout Michigan have access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences.

"This grant represents not just financial support, but recognition of the important role community music plays in Battle Creek," said band representatives. "We're grateful to our local partners and the state for believing in our mission."

Get Involved

The Cereal City Concert Band welcomes new members and volunteers. For more information about upcoming performances, membership opportunities, or to support the band, visit cerealcityconcertband.org or email cccb@cerealcityconcertband.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Cereal City Concert Band?
A: Founded in 1987, the Cereal City Concert Band is a nonprofit community ensemble that brings live concert band music to the greater Battle Creek area. They provide performance opportunities for musicians of all backgrounds.

Q: How can I support the Cereal City Concert Band?
A: You can attend their performances, volunteer your time, or make a donation. Local businesses can also partner with the band as sponsors. Contact them at cccb@cerealcityconcertband.org for more information.

Q: What does the $20,000 grant mean for Battle Creek?
A: The grant will help expand the band's programming and performance opportunities, bringing more live music to the community and supporting local musicians. It also recognizes Battle Creek's commitment to arts and culture.