What is LEAF?
The Longfellow Emerging Artist Fellowship (LEAF) is a bold new initiative from One Longfellow Square designed to support the artistic and professional growth of early-career musicians based in Maine.
Launching officially in January 2026, LEAF is a year-long fellowship offered to five Maine-based artists who are ready to deepen their craft, expand their network, and build a sustainable future in the music industry.
Our Mission
We believe that local artists deserve the opportunity to thrive – not just survive – in their creative careers. LEAF was created to fill the gaps in support for emerging musicians: offering time, space, mentorship, financial resources, and the chance to be seen and heard by new audiences.
This program is grounded in equity, collaboration, and long-term impact, not just for artists, but for Maine’s cultural landscape as a whole.
Designed with Intention
LEAF is the result of deep listening – through interviews with artists, venue operators, industry professionals, and community stakeholders. We’ve partnered with organizations such as Friends of Congress Square Park, Hackmatack Playhouse, Resurgam Festival, Ossipee Valley Music Festival, and All Roads Music Festival to ensure Fellows have diverse opportunities to grow and share their work.
This is a pilot program, and we’re building it with care and flexibility to meet real needs. Fellows will help shape what LEAF becomes in the years ahead!