Symphony Seeks Young Musicians

The Stamford Symphony is seeking applicants for its 2007 awards programs to benefits young musicians. Two programs are available, the Stamford Symphony’s Instrumental Scholarship Competition for high school seniors, and the 2007 Roger Nierenberg Young Musician Commendation Awards for eighth graders.

Exceptional young musicians from throughout the state are invited to compete for a top scholarship of $20,000 in the Stamford Symphony’s Instrumental Scholarship Competition. High School seniors during the 2007–2008 school term who reside in Connecticut or attend a Connecticut high school and play any orchestral instrument are encouraged to apply. Students must intend to pursue a music degree at an accredited university or conservatory. The receipt deadline is November 30, and applications can be found by visiting the SSO website at www.StamfordSymphony.org and clicking “Scholarships.”

First prize in the instrumental scholarship competition, The Jeniam Foundation Scholarship, will provide the winner with $20,000 ($5,000 annually) for the pursuit of advanced music study at an accredited conservatory, college, or university. The second place Janet Meeker Scholarship is a $4,000 award ($1,000 annually). The Sandwich Maestro Prize (Third Place) is $500.

The 2007 Roger Nierenberg Young Musician Commendation Awards seek to identify and encourage talented eighth grade musicians from Fairfield County. All music teachers, both at schools and teaching privately, are encouraged to nominate their most promising young students. The receipt deadline for applications is Friday, November 30. Students are judged on the basis of their musical accomplishments and are not required to audition. Winners will appear on the stage of the Palace Theatre with Maestro Eckart Preu, Sunday, January 21, concert of the Stamford Symphony. They will be awarded a cash prize, free concert tickets, a valuable hardcover music reference book, a certificate, and will be honored at a reception.

Parents cannot nominate their children, but may call the symphony office at 203-325-1407, extension 12, to learn how their child might be considered. Further information and application forms may be found at www.StamfordSymphony.org by clicking on “Scholarships.”