Scholarship

Types of Scholarships

1. Individual private music lessons

   Provides funding for an entire year of private music lessons. This is a scholarship for passionate and dedicated young musicians. Individuals receiving this scholarship will be required to commit to an entire year of music lessons from the teacher of their choice. Parents will be called upon to encourage and support that commitment and see their child through any difficult learning stages. Terminating lessons will be permitted only under extreme circumstances.

2. Ensemble instruction

   Provides 15 hours of instruction for small ensembles (jazz combo, rock bands, chamber groups, etc.)

3. Instrument

   Provides financial assistance for the purchase of a new instrument.

4. Recording Scholarship

   Provides financial and professional production assistance to young musicians with a desire to record their music.

Eligibility

Any current student of music or any person with a desire to study music in grades 6-12 who are actively participating in an ensemble such as band, choir or orchestra may apply. Students of piano, guitar and other such instruments for which there is no school ensemble available may also apply.

HMDSS believes all students should have equal opportunities to experience music. Private lessons, quality instruments and the recording process help students excel in music, giving them confidence in larger groups and as a soloist, enhancing their musical experience. In striving for equality, scholarships are awarded based on passion for and desire to study music as well as financial need.

How to Apply

• Complete the information form
• Compose a three part essay, typed or nicely hand written, with each section labeled separately:
  • Section 1 - Financial Need - Describe your situation and why you feel you need assistance.
  • Section 2 - Intended Use - Describe your musical goals and desires, your teacher of choice, your instrument of choice, the status of your current project you wish to record.
  • Section 3 - Why You? - Explain why you feel the scholarship should be awarded to you, what impact it will have on your life and your commitment to music and any other information that describes your uniqueness.
• Attach (2) letters of recommendation from people who know you well. These can be teachers, coaches, mentors, pastors, etc., but may not include family members or peers.
• Mail all parts of application together to:

  HMDSS

  c/o Steve Merriman
  PO Box 6351
  Bozeman, MT 59771

• Criteria for Determining Awards

  • Application must be completed and postmarked by July 1, 2008.
  • Quality and completeness of essay
  • Financial need

  Dates and Deadlines

  • July 1, 2008 - Deadline for submission of application.
  • August 1, 2008 - Notification of winners.
  • August 15, 2008 - Deadline to accept or decline scholarship.
  • September 1, 2008 - Arrangements will be made with private instructors or instrument retailers to purchase services or instruments.
  For more information contact: Steve Merriman, 587–3282.
  
  Click Here to Download Scholarship Form