At a time when the government has turned a critical eye toward funding the arts, aspiring musicians are fortunate that generosity and support can still be found through private individuals and foundations. Testimony to the significance of this private support is the Augustine Foundation, a non-profit organization devoted to promoting the study and performance of classical guitar. Rose Augustine, president of Albert Augustine Strings, one of the world's leading manufacturers of nylon guitar strings, has presented many of today's leading performers in their debuts and helped them launch their careers through the Augustine Foundation. The foundation has also commissioned original works for guitar, including solos, ensembles, and concertos by American composers.

To aid fledgling talent, the Augustine Foundation has provided scholarships for guitar students at such well-known institutions as Manhattan School of Music, Mannes College of Music, and the Juilliard School, and it has provided grants to music festivals and other programs. Most recently, the Foundation sponsored 12 concerts at the Manhattan School of Music and an International Guitar Competition in London.

At the opening of the Augustine Guitar Series at Manhattan School of Music on October 13, 1994, Richard Elder Adams, dean of faculty and performance. stated, "We are deeply grateful to Dr. Rose Augustine [she was awarded the degree of Doctor of Music honoris causa by Manhattan School of Music in 1991] for her generosity and for the privilege of presenting this extraordinary series at our school. The Augustine Guitar Series provides an opportunity for Manhattan School of Music to showcase distinguished guitarists who are active performers on stages and concert halls throughout the world."