BELTON, Texas — The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor has been awarded a $55,000 grant from the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation to further the growth and development of the UMHB Arts Academy. This funding will enable continued scholarships, expanded programming, and increased community outreach efforts for young musicians and artists across Central Texas. The Carpenter Foundation has previously contributed to the success of the Academy, helping many students access arts education through financial support and targeted program investments.
“We are deeply thankful for the Carpenter Foundation’s faithful support,” said Tucker Glaske, Vice President for Advancement. “Each year, their investment brings music, imagination, and joy into the lives of children across Central Texas.”
Since its founding in 1996, the Arts Academy has offered a comprehensive range of applied music instruction for students throughout Central Texas. Lessons in piano, voice, strings, percussion, guitar, woodwinds, and brass are complemented by group activities like theory classes, ensemble experiences, and early childhood music sessions.
In August 2023, the UMHB College of Visual and Performing Arts significantly broadened the Academy’s offerings. What began as a youth music initiative now serves learners of all ages with programming in the visual arts, dance, theatre, and other artistic disciplines. The expansion has created new pathways for artistic expression and creative exploration for the broader community.
Beyond its impact on community learners, the Arts Academy provides valuable opportunities for UMHB students. Music education majors gain practical teaching experience by assisting with group classes, observing private instruction, and even leading lessons for students in various disciplines. These hands-on experiences allow UMHB students to develop essential pedagogical skills in real-world settings.
The quality of instruction offered through the Arts Academy continues to open doors for student achievement. Participants regularly compete and succeed in regional and national organizations such as the Texas Music Teachers Association (TMTA), National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), National Association for Music Educators (NAfME), Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA), among others.
“The Carpenter Foundation’s generous contributions have played a vital role in the growth and success of the Arts Academy,” said Grace Catherine, director of the Arts Academy. “This past year, we served more than 200 students. This ongoing support will continue to shape and inspire young artists for years to come.”
For more information about the UMHB Arts Academy or to register for upcoming classes, visit umhb.edu/artsacademy.
