by Dorothy Knowles, Admissions Coordinator
You’ve applied, auditioned, waited patiently, and now you’ve been accepted to Brevard Music Center for the summer. You are excited to have received a merit award and some work study from the Music Center, but the amount isn’t quite what you need. Now what? You should look for outside help. Third-party scholarship opportunities are numerous, but they may be hard to find.
Suggestion #1: check with your school to see whether there are funds for "student professional development" or similar. If there is a student government association at your school, check there. Check with your school's alumni association. If you are enrolled in music school, walk down the hall and ask your dean for support. Be persuasive. Make the case, for example, that a summer at Brevard will make you a stronger musician, and your school orchestra will benefit from your enhanced skills.
Every year, Brevard students receive support from local music clubs and civic organizations. Check with your school or private teacher about local scholarships.
Some businesses offer scholarship support for children of employees; ask your parents to check with their employers. Ask even if you are college students and formally independent from your parents. For some companies the benefit is age-related (up to 18 or 21) and is not contingent upon financial status.
Many Brevard students are entrepreneurial. Some have performed public concerts for donations or held bake sales. Busking is a time-honored tradition if you live in a place where it is appropriate (and legal).
Financial support for Brevard can make a splendid holiday or birthday gift--it beats that sweater or new iPod. Grandparents are [particularly] big on this.
Dare we mention the "wealthy patron?"
Michigan State University has posted a guide to music scholarships for individuals.
Most importantly, assume that you will receive less than you need from Brevard, and start looking early for other financial help. If you find someone to support your cause, thank them in writing. You never know when you'll need them again.
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