ARP Foundation Introduces Back-to-School Fundraiser
Building on the momentum of the Alan R. Pearlman Centennial celebration, the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation has announced its 2026 Back-to-School Fundraiser, running August 18 through October 13, 2026.
The campaign seeks to raise $17,500 to do two things: preserve the history of ARP Instruments, and expand hands-on educational opportunities through the Foundation’s ARPs for All initiative.
Founded to honor the life and legacy of legendary synthesizer pioneer Alan R. Pearlman, the Foundation preserves the history of ARP Instruments while ensuring that the spirit of innovation and accessibility that defined Alan’s work continues to inspire future generations. As students return to classrooms, studios, and creative spaces this fall, the Foundation invites the global synthesizer community to invest in music education, mentorship, and preservation.
This year’s fundraiser supports two goals — $17,500 in all
1. Preserve the Legacy — $7,500
Acquire and preserve a recently discovered archive of never-before-seen photographs taken inside ARP Instruments during the 1970s — an extraordinary glimpse into one of the most influential synthesizer companies in history — along with a vintage ARP string ensemble.
2. Expand ARPs for All — $10,000
Grow the Foundation’s education program by bringing vintage ARP synthesizers into classrooms, museums, libraries, and community spaces; restoring and maintaining the instruments so they stay playable (including new assistive-technology upgrades); and adding another vintage instrument to the collection so even more communities can experience these historic sounds firsthand.
