Musical Innovation Grant
The Black Violin Foundations inaugural program will provide scholarships of up to $2,500 to youth who would like to continue their musical education through a program of their liking that fosters musical creativity and innovation. Programs can range from private lessons, to summer music camps, to college courses. Proof of program legitimacy must be provided during the application process.
Scholarships will be awarded bi-annualy to up to 20 applicants per scholarship cycle. Recipients will be required to submit a follow up report on their musical progress after having received their scholarship and entering their music program. Black Violin will also connect personally with scholarship recipients to provide encouragement and support.
2020 Musical Innovation Grant Award Recipients
Peirce Ellis
Age: 17
Julliard Pre-College
"I'm excited for my journey with the Black Violin foundation. I am happy and fortunate to have a group of people behind me supporting me and pushing me to be a better musician. I wouldn't be able to continue my studies at Juilliard Pre-College without the foundation, and I am grateful to be a new member of this community."
Isabelle Scott
Age: 21
Masterworks Festival
"As a very active student musician, any opportunity to gain experience is a good one. Whether it be summer music programs, lessons, masterclasses, etc., everything can help a young musician grow. Having a scholarship from BVF makes this possible for me. I am so grateful for the people involved who make this possible for me and for countless others. Being a BVF Youth makes me feel like I am a part of something that will continue to help and grow young musicians everywhere."
Braden Ellis
Age: 18
Julliard Pre-College
"I am extremely grateful that the Black Violin Foundation recognized me and believes in my future. As someone whose dream has always been to go into the music industry, the support I've received from Black Violin will springboard me towards that goal, and for that, I am thankful. Thank you so much!"
Gabrielle Stanbeck
Age: 20
Green Chamber Music Festival
"Receiving this grant from the Black Violin Foundation is a tremendous honor without this grant I would be unable to fund lessons with high impact professors with whom I am interested in studying for my masters degree program. I am so thankful for this opportunity and this community that comes with Black Violin."
Blake Collins
Age: 18
Brevard Music Center Summer Institute & Festival
"Receiving this grant means so much to me! Black Violin has been such an inspiration to me and I've been so fortunate to have played alongside them in 3 concerts through our local Urban Strings Orchestra. This grant will allow me to purchase a violin that will help me hone my skills throughout my conservatory experience as a Violin Performance Major."
Nayati Ates
Age: 14
Sewanee Summer Music Festival
“Being chosen as a scholarship recipient validates my identity as a musician. I can’t imaging being anything else. Music is life to me. Wow – to have Black Violin recognize my hard work and believe in me, means everything.”
Emma Stamper
Age: 17
Orlando Choral Society Summer Camp
"I am extremely grateful and honored to receive this scholarship from the BVF inc. Unfortunately, the original camp I applied for was canceled due to COVID-19, but I was also accepted into the Washington National Opera Institute and my spot will be kept for the Summer of 2021. This highly prestigious audition-based institute only accepts 30 students across the country. This grant will significantly help the funding I need to attend this program. I intend to grow and improve my craft as a vocalist and performer in the awe-inspiring world of opera."