Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Arts for All Marathon?
The Marathon is a fundraiser for the arts education programs at the Community School of Music and Arts, including our needs based scholarships. It is also a challenge to local artists to give their creativity a workout, and a celebration of creativity in our community.
Where and when will the Marathon happen?
In studios, living rooms, garages, schools, and nightclubs near you for 26.2 days, starting on October 3 and ending on October 29, 2011.
Why 26.2 days?
Because a marathon race is 26.2 miles long.
What is the Community School of Music and Arts?
For half a century 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. (CSMA was incorporated in December, 1960.)
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 2010, CSMA awarded $16,434 in scholarships to 67 recipients.
I’m an artist/musician/dancer/writer… What do you want me to do?
Make a commitment to practice, rehearse, or create during October's 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 doing a performance or displaying/installing your work somewhere, we’ll list it in the Arts for All Marathon Calendar. Fourth, we'll advertise you on our Participating Artists page, with a link to your website!
How do I sign up?
Register online, 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.)