Scholarship Information
We are pleased to announce the availability of a limited number of competitive scholarships for instrumental musicians and guard members. These scholarships are for full-time undergraduate students who display strong musical talent or guard ability. Scholarship amounts vary between $500 and $3,000 and are based on talent and financial need. Please note that these scholarships are available in addition to the Band Grants for participating in the Marching Band and Pep Band, or Winter Guard.
Scholarship recipients will be obligated to perform in the Marching Band, Pep Band, and Concert Band or Jazz Band. Guard members will be required to perform in Marching Band and Winter Guard.
Requirements:
To be considered for a Pioneer Band Scholarship students must:
Be an entering full-time freshman, or a full-time undergraduate student at Sacred Heart University with a minimum GPA of 2.5. These scholarships are renewable for all 4 years at Sacred Heart University. The student must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA to keep scholarship.
Perform an audition during designated scholarship audition days found below:
- Friday, January 25 - CLOSED
- Sunday, January 27 - CLOSED
- Friday, February 1 - CLOSED
- Saturday, February 2 - CLOSED
- Sunday, February 3 - CLOSED
- Friday, February 8 - CLOSED
- Saturday, February 9 - CLOSED
- Sunday, February 10 - CLOSED
- Friday, February 22
- Scholarship winners will be obligated to perform in Marching Band, Pep Band, and either Concert Band or Jazz Ensemble depending on their instrument and specific ensemble needs. It is anticipated that Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble will meet on Fridays. Guard members would be required to perform in Marching Band and Winter Guard.
Scholarship winners will be expected to be in attendance at all rehearsals and performances. Scholarship winners are not entitled to unexcused absences for any ensemble for any reason. This includes tournament games and competitions. Failure to fulfill their obligation will result in a complete loss of the student's Pioneer Band Scholarship.
Scholarship winners will also be expected to be available for non-scheduled performances as requested by the University.
Auditions:
Auditions for the scholarship will be held on Sacred Heart University's campus. Students should prepare two solos in contrasting styles: one should demonstrate lyrical playing; the other should demonstrate technical ability. Students will be asked to do some sight-reading during the audition. You will also be asked to play scales. Each audition will last approximately 15 minutes.
To Schedule An Audition:The easiest and fastest way to request an audition is by filling out the online application. You may also contact Keith Johnston by email at johnstonk@sacredheart.edu to schedule an audition (using online form or email is preferred). You may call the band office at 203-365-7664 if you have any questions.