Plano Symphony Orchestra and Plano ISD Announce Music Scholarship Program

Continuing its long partnership with the Plano ISD, the Plano Symphony Orchestra (PSO) announced on Tuesday the launch of a scholarship program benefitting 6th and 7th grade students enrolled in Plano ISD instrumental music education programs. The purpose of the program is to provide private music instruction to young musicians who show promising talent, but whose families cannot afford private instruction.

The Plano Symphony Guild has worked over the past two years to bring this dream to fruition, and they began with a simple and powerful question: How can the orchestra continue to reach out and educate more children?

The scholarship program is funded by the Alice Hobbs Education & Outreach Fund. Hobbs, a long-time and now retired executive director of the orchestra said, “I’m very honored that my work is being recognized in this way, helping talented students further their education. I received similar help when I was majoring in piano and music in college. The cost of private lessons was something I couldn’t afford, and I decided to change my major. My music professor offered to help me by providing private instruction at no cost.”

Recognizing that private lessons are the single, most impactful experience for young musicians, Ms. Hobbs views this scholarship fund as a way to provide young students with the same gift that she received as a student.

PSO Maestro Hector Guzman and Ms. Alice Hobbs, former and retired executive director of the PSO // photos Charlise Hill-Larson

Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Brian T. Binggeli describes arts education in Plano as one of the most robust in the region. Plano ISD currently has 18,000 students enrolled in its secondary arts programs, and 6,000 of those students are enrolled in band and orchestra. Dr. Binggeli views this scholarship fund as continuing the district’s commitment to “providing opportunity for all kids. We are a juggernaut for the arts.”

The scholarship aid will begin with the 2017-2018 school year, and the application deadline is April 28, 2017. Students who apply must meet the following criteria: a demonstrated financial need, currently enrolled in 6th or 7th grade, must possess clear musical potential, must submit an essay and a character reference, and they must have parent approval.

PSO supporters: Director of Corporate and Community Relations Nancy Baumgarten, Education Committee Member Irma Landis and Education Committee Chair Mirna Lynch

Find more information or make a donation to support this program at the link below.

PSO Scholarship Program >
More from Charlise Hill-Larson
Pakistani Native Mona Kafeel Shares the Love in Her Plano Community
Safety. Security. Community. People from the world over hold these values to...
Read More
Join the Conversation

1 Comment

Leave a comment
Leave a comment