the dag prize for music
The $20,000 DAG Prize for Music is awarded annually to a musician, songwriter, or producer whose work enriches and advances the diverse musical landscape of the United States.
The goal of the DAG prize is to contribute meaningfully to music being made in the United States. We aim to support artists who draw on established musical traditions without being bound by them. From session players to songwriters, we support creative, collaborative artists whose work suggests innovation, synthesis, or breakthrough, a unique perspective, and a dedicated practice.
The DAG Prize for Music will go to a mid-career artist who has sustained a career in touring, recording, songwriting, and/or producing. Awardees will have reached professional milestones, such as touring nationally and/or internationally, releasing original music with an established label or in cooperation with a recognized distributor, entering into a publishing contract, and/or building a dedicated following.
The prize is intended to support a significant new release or project. Funds can be used for composing, recording, producing, and/or performing music. This may involve renting studio time, hiring session musicians, acquiring new instruments or technology, or other related activities.