Endowed faculty positions, which bear the name of the donor or another individual that the donor wishes to honor, support the work of the most distinguished performers and scholars. Considered the most prestigious of all appointments, endowed faculty positions have the power to attract and retain the move coveted and acclaimed talent. The positions can take the form of chairs, which support faculty salaries, or professorships that support the professor’s studio, research, travel, or other critical needs. Donors may create endowed positions for a particular instrument, area, or may leave positions open to support the most deserving candidate.