Lexington County, SC (Paul Kirby) - Are there any young pickers, players, or singers out there that are interested in the lively and exciting melodies of bluegrass music or the sometimes soulful sounds of the other genres often associated with our predecessors? Perhaps you play or sing old time country, traditional gospel, or even Celtic of folk tunes. These forms of music are still loved and strong in this country and Lexington County is no exception. Now there's an opportunity for South Carolina's young aficionados to get a head start on furthering their education or receiving funding that will provide the supplies needed to make their traditional music.
The South Carolina Bluegrass and Traditional Music Association is offering scholarships to school-age youth who play bluegrass or other traditional music on acoustic string instruments. Applications for these scholarships must be received by November 13, 2020.
This is the fifth year the Bill Wells Memorial Scholarships will be awarded, and the first year that piano players will be eligible. Young singers also may apply. Besides bluegrass, traditional music may include old time, gospel, classic country, folk, and Celtic songs and playing styles. Full details are included on the 2020 application form, available at www.scbtma.com or on Facebook under SCBTMA.
A video sample must be included with all applications. The number and amounts of the scholarships will depend on the talents of the applicants and how many applications are received. For 2020, at least one award of $250 is anticipated. In 2019, five $200 scholarships were awarded, as well as one $250 scholarship. The funds are to be used for music lessons, instruments and supplies, and other related expenses.
Interested applicants may call (803) 237-2682 with questions. They are asked to mention “scholarship” when leaving a voice message.
