Instrumental Private Lesson Scholarships

The Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur offers up to 10 instrumental private lesson scholarships from a Millikin School of Music instructor. These scholarships include 13 one-hour lessons valued up to $800.

Geographic Scope

• Required: Resident of Macon County, Illinois

Eligibility

• Students in grades 6-11
• Must meet ONE of the following criteria:
  • Participate in the school band or orchestra
  • Be home-schooled in Macon County, IL
  • Be a member of the Decatur Youth Symphony
• Must complete an audition with an accompanist

Award Details

• Number of awards: Up to 10 scholarships
• Value: Up to $800 per scholarship (13 one-hour lessons)
• Instruction begins: September

Important Notes

• Winners can lose their scholarships if multiple lessons are missed or not set up by the end of September; an alternate winner will be contacted at this time
• Former scholarship winners who receive the recommendation of their Millikin private teachers are welcome to continue private lessons without audition
• Students are placed for instruction based on playing ability as determined by the Education Committee and Millikin staff

Contact

• Email: info@symphonyguildofdecatur.org
• Phone: (217) 423-3189
• Address: P.O. Box 1541, Decatur, IL 62525-1541

Application Process

Deadline: February 1st

Audition Requirements

1. Perform one solo piece, not to exceed 7 minutes, which highlights your technical ability and musicality
2. Provide judges with two copies of the music
3. Use a self-provided accompanist – Millikin piano students are available at no cost if desired – be sure to mark your application appropriately
4. Submit a photo and biographical information – Judges require a photo and information about you as they make final decisions
5. Feel free to use the back of your form for biographical information and additional musical activities
6. The photo may be used for publicity purposes when winners are announced, so send a picture you would want to see in a newspaper or program

Selection Process

• Students are placed for instruction based on playing ability as determined by the Education Committee and Millikin staff