Each January, between 30 and 50 young musicians and performers compete for scholarships awarded by the foundation. Recent winners have applied their scholarship awards to summer study and music camps such as Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Interlochen Arts Academy, Herter Music Camp, the University of Michigan, and Central Michigan University. The scholarships may also be used for any music-related expenses, including lessons, equipment or music.
Competition is open to all Intermediate and High School students who reside and/or study in the Bay County area. Judging is provided by qualified professional musicians and teachers.
Students in grades 6-8 are classified as "Intermediate", grades 9-12 are classified as "Senior", and competitors who have previously won 1st place their competition must compete at the next level. Previous 1st place winners of the senior level must compete at the "Advanced" level.
Within each division there are four categories of competition:
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Piano
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Instrumental (Strings, Woodwinds, Brass, & Percussion)
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Voice
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Musical Theater
A first and second place scholarship is given in each division and category. Judges may also award honorable mentions as well as a discretionary "Tony Rongo Honor Scholarship" Award.
There is a $25.00 application fee which must be submitted with your application prior to January 30, 2010. A current photo of the student (for publicity purposes) will be required of competition winners on the day of the "Winners' Showcase" Concert.
Click here for a list of available accompanists
The last competition was wonderful. A "Winners' Showcase" concert, featuring the competition winners, was presented the following Sunday afternoon. Click here for last year's results!
