Music Scholarships and Colleges in the US

Students who excel, while participating in high school bands, can look forward to obtaining scholarships. Many people relate scholarships to excellent grades or athletic capabilities, while the truth is, playing in high school bands can also help students get scholarships. There are a variety of organizations and colleges that encourage students enrolled in musical programs, to apply for scholarships. In order to be able to apply for a marching band scholarship, it is imperative that you participate in your high school marching band all four years.  You will also be expected to maintain a consistent academic record and apply early.

Note: Catfish Music is an excellent source for band rental equipment.

One of the most notable scholarships is the Glenn Miller Scholarship Competition. Offering up to $4,500, the money can be used as the winner deems fit. This means you can head off to the music college of your choice. If you are someone who intends to make music an integral part of your future, you may qualify for competition.

The Marine Band Concerto Competition, the President’s exclusive foundation, holds competitions each year for high school students. To compete, you must play a percussion, woodwind, or brass instrument. The winner receives $2,500 and an opportunity to play as a guest soloist in the band.

Music students of varying ages can compete to win one of the ten scholarships given out each year, by the School Band and Orchestra Magazine Scholarship fund. The magazine provides ten $1,000 scholarships to any student who can explicate, in 250 words or less, why music is such a significant part of their lives.

Regardless of which scholarship you receive, you can apply the money to any college or music school you wish. In DeKalb, Illinois, you will find the Northern Illinois University School of Music.; in Columbus, Ohio, the Ohio State University School of Music, or if in Westerville, Ohio, the Otterbein College Department of Music can be found. The Peabody Conservatory of Music is in Baltimore, Maryland, while you may find the Augustana College Department of Music in South Dakota more to your liking. Good luck!

---