JACKSON — The Jackson Council for the Arts will present the third annual Young Musician Scholarship auditions March 31 and April 1. The council’s motto is "Art for Community’s Sake."
"We believe that one important way of nurturing the arts in Jackson is to nurture the talents of our young people," said Vicki Rickabaugh, chairwoman of the scholarship committee. "Music truly is the universal language and what better way to communicate with our young people than by encouraging their enjoyment of the arts?"
In its first two years, the Jackson Young Musician Scholarship program awarded scholarships to 19 talented instrumental musicians, according to a press release. Their awards have been used for a variety of purposes including music lessons, instrument purchases and music camps.
According to scholarship committee member Carol Blake, another goal of the scholarship program is to provide performance opportunities for young musicians.
"Our finalists are invited to perform at arts council events, showcasing what this scholarship program is all about. Some recipients performed at a benefit recital for the scholarship program. Others have performed during the Jackson Civic Chorus winter concerts for the past two years. Many of these talented students also perform with the Jackson Summer Theatre pit band," Blake said.
"It is our intent that the scholarship program be entirely supported by donations from the community through fund-raising efforts," said Joyce Cook, scholarship committee member. "In the past, proceeds from several art auctions, benefit recitals, Jackson Day and grants have all helped generate funds for this exciting endeavor."
Scholarship committee member Roxane Southcott-Roberts praised the Jackson community.
"Of course, the heart of our steady, ongoing support comes from our audiences. You are all greatly appreciated," she said.
Arts council representatives said the council is grateful for the many dedicated citizens and artistic professionals who are working to put together the 2004 scholarship program. In addition to those named above, the committee includes Bud McCormick, Bill Blake, Curtis Briggs and James Cook. The council thanked past scholarship recipient Jeff Flynn, a Jackson Memorial High School senior, for volunteering to help with this year’s additions.
Dr. Pam Turner, president of the arts council, detailed the requirements for the 2004 auditions.
"This year’s program will again be open to instrumental musicians in grades eight through 11 who are Jackson residents. Students who reside in Jackson, but do not attend Jackson schools are eligible to participate. Applicants will be divided into two age groups, eighth- and ninth-graders and 10th- and 11th-graders. Students may enter in one of three categories: classical, jazz and contemporary music. Finalists will be selected by an independent panel of musicians and music educators from outside of Jackson," Turner said.
Applications were distributed and were due back to the committee by March 17.