Supporting excellence in the arts, since 1955.
The Masterwork Music and Art Foundation is a non-profit educational organization that promotes, presents and supports fine and performing arts — including music, dance, theater and visual arts — dedicated to the advancement of cultural and educational pursuits reflecting the high standards that have become associated with the name “Masterwork.”
- 1955 · Morristown, NJ
Founded by Shirley May
The Foundation began more than 60 years ago as the brainchild of Shirley May, who was passionate about the arts and understood the importance of nurturing developing artists while enriching the cultural life of the community. Generations of artists were shaped by decades of concerts, theatrical events and fine-arts projects Masterwork funded or produced.
- 2016
A recommitment to Shirley’s vision
Shirley May passed away in 2016, prompting a revitalization of the organization and a recommitment to expand her vision — broadening the Foundation’s reach to meet the changing needs of today’s developing artists.
- Today
An agile, largely volunteer-run foundation
Masterwork now operates with two part-time staff members and a 13-member Board of Directors, issuing three award programs and producing the A Life in the Arts interview series — while keeping its promise that as close to 100% of every gift as possible reaches artists directly.
We believe in the arts, and in Shirley’s vision for supporting excellence at all levels.
Music
Choral, vocal and instrumental work, from community chorales to concert commissions.
Dance
Choreography and performance, including recent Premier Award recognition for Camille A. Brown’s I AM.
Theater
New theatrical works, including 2026’s Premier Award to Premiere Stages at Kean University.
Visual Arts
Fine arts projects and exhibitions supported alongside the Foundation’s music, dance and theater grants.
Board leadership
Officers and members of the Masterwork Board of Directors, as published by the Foundation.