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WSO Announces New String Pathways Scholarship Program

Categories: WSO General

The Westmoreland Symphony Academy of Music is proud to introduce the String Pathways Scholarship Program, that provides viola and cello instruments and instruction free of charge for middle school students.

“We believe every student with the desire to learn music should have the opportunity to do so, regardless of financial circumstances. String Pathways removes some of the barriers that can make beginning an instrument difficult and provides students with a supportive introduction to string playing,” said Adam Gillespie, Academy Director.

Selected String Pathways Scholars will receive:

  • Use of a scholarship instrument throughout the program
  • Weekly group instruction with an experienced string educator
  • Opportunities to develop musicianship and build foundational instrumental skills
  • Performance opportunities alongside other young musicians
  • A supportive introduction to the viola or cello

“The program is designed to help students build confidence, develop musical skills, and discover the unique opportunities that come with playing a string instrument,” said Gillespie.

The String Pathways Scholarship Program is intended for middle school students who are interested in learning the viola or cello. No previous experience is required. Students should have an interest in learning an instrument and a commitment to participating in the program.

Financial circumstances should not prevent an interested student from applying.

Applications are now being accepted and will remain open until all scholarship positions have been filled.The WSO encourages families to apply as soon as possible, as scholarship positions are limited. https://westmorelandsymphony.org/string-pathways-scholarship-program/

The String Pathways Scholarship Program is made possible through the generous support of the Hawksglen Foundation, The Farina Foundation, The Campbell Family and Annette M. Russell.

Their commitment to music education is creating new opportunities for young musicians throughout our region.

The WSO is especially grateful to The Farina Foundation for its generous donation of instruments and to Brighton Music Center for its partnership in helping us secure high-quality scholarship instruments for our students.

Special thanks to Kathy Campbell, Education Committee Chair, and Sarah Ferrell, WSO musician and WYSO String Ensemble Director, for their dedication and leadership in bringing the String Pathways Scholarship Program to life.

“The WSO looks forward to welcoming their first class of String Pathways Scholars and helping these young musicians begin their musical journeys,” said Michael Rozell, WSO Executive Director.

About The Westmoreland Symphony Youth Orchestra

The Westmoreland Youth Symphony Orchestra (WYSO) was founded in 1981 to provide area music students with a high-quality, educational experience in playing and appreciating orchestral music.

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