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Mary & Lucian Cassetta Music Scholarship Competition

ANCHORAGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Foundation Annual Music Education Grants

Funding Amount

$1,000

Deadline

April 14, 2026

5 days left

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Mary & Lucian Cassetta Music Scholarship Competition

Award Amount: $1,000

Purpose: Encourages the development of musical talent in young Alaskans and provides opportunities for young musicians to grow as artists.

Background

Established in memory of Mary Cassetta, a trained musician and professional vocalist who dedicated twenty years to Anchorage music organizations including the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, Alaska Festival of Music, and Anchorage Concert Association. The scholarship title was changed to include Mary's husband Lucian, who passed away in 1995. This is the 40th annual competition.

    Eligibility

  • Open to: Alaska high school seniors
  • Requirements: Must possess talent, dedication, and desire to make a serious commitment to an advanced study program at a recognized music school or music camp
  • Disciplines: Open to both instrumentalists and vocalists

    Award Details

  • The $1,000 scholarship is paid directly to a school or appropriate source to cover tuition, musical instruction, or other direct musical expenses
  • Selected student may be invited to perform in a recital hosted by the Anchorage Concert Chorus (typically held in May), featuring music scholarship winners from other local competitions

Contact Information

Email: aso@youraso.org

Mailing Address:
Mary & Lucian Cassetta Music Scholarship Committee
Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
430 W 7th Ave D Street, Suite 202
Anchorage, AK 99501

Phone: 907-274-8668

How to Apply

Application Process

Deadline: April 14, 2026

Competition Date: April 28, 2026

Required Materials:

1. Completed Application - Available at the application portal

2. Letter of Recommendation - From the applicant's music instructor on the degree of the student's commitment
- Must be submitted separately directly from the instructor to the scholarship committee
- Submit via email to: aso@youraso.org
- OR mail to: Mary & Lucian Cassetta Music Scholarship Committee, Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, 430 W 7th Ave D Street, Suite 202, Anchorage, AK 99501
- Do not submit with the student's application

All applications and recommendations must be submitted or postmarked by the deadline date.

Audition Requirements

Location: Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

Audition Format:

  • Must include at least two (2) contrasting pieces

  • Pieces must be by different composers

  • Must contrast in tempo and style

  • Total audition time must not exceed 10 minutes

  • Selections are not limited to classical music repertoire

  • Important: Selection of instrument and pieces may not be changed after the application deadline
  • Selection Process

    1. Applicants will be notified of audition times after the application deadline
    2. Closed audition with three judges from the local music community
    3. Short oral interview with the judges immediately following the audition
    4. Winners selected based on audition performance and interview

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    music-education

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