UMHB Arts Academy Merit-Based Music & Dance Scholarships

The UMHB Arts Academy offers music scholarships for students in private lessons and dance classes. Awards are based on audition performance, teacher recommendations, and application strength.

Scholarships apply to semester private lesson or dance class tuition and do not cover summer mini sessions.

Each student may apply for only one type of scholarship. Students must choose either music or dance, as they cannot apply for both.

Spring 2026 Scholarship Auditions will be held on April 11, 2026.

Scholarship awards from the Spring 2026 cycle will apply toward Fall 2026 tuition. Please speak with your teacher to determine whether you qualify.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be currently enrolled in private music lessons or dance class and have been enrolled for the entire 14‑week semester.
• Demonstrate artistic excellence and commitment through regular participation in lessons, practice, and performances.
• Maintain good academic standing and a strong work ethic.

Previous scholarship recipients may apply again.

Scholarship recipients are expected to perform in an Arts Academy Recital and may be invited to UMHB performances or events.

Important Note About Scholarship Disbursement
Scholarship awards will not be applied to student accounts until all previous charges have been paid in full. Students with outstanding balances are not eligible to receive scholarship funds until their account is current.

Scholarship Application Process

Teacher Recommendation Submission

Teachers are required to submit a Scholarship Recommendation Form on behalf of each student. This form provides the Arts Academy with important information about the student’s artistic development, commitment, and potential.

Student Letter Request

Once the teacher’s recommendation has been received, the student will receive an email from the Arts Academy with instructions to submit their personal scholarship request letter.

Personal Scholarship Letter Requirements

Students must submit a one‑page letter (250–400 words).
In this letter, please address the following:

• What music or dance means to you
• How you practice and demonstrate commitment to your craft
• How receiving a scholarship would positively impact your life

For our very young auditioners (under age 7), we understand that writing abilities vary widely at this stage. Their age will absolutely be taken into consideration during our review process.

Due Date

All letter requests must be submitted by the deadline indicated in the Academy’s email. Late submissions will not be reviewed.

Review & Next Steps

Once the Academy receives your letter, the Scholarship Committee will review it to determine whether you qualify for an in‑person audition.

After the review, all students will receive an email with their results.

If a student qualifies for the next step in the audition process, they will receive a sign‑up link to schedule their audition time.

2. Live Audition Requirements

If you are found eligible, you will receive a link to sign up for a time slot for a live audition. Repertoire and audition requirements are listed below.

Music Auditions

Instrumental Students:

• Perform one piece and one scale.
• Memorization is highly encouraged but not required.
• Accompaniment is not required.

Piano Students:

• Perform one major or minor scale (one octave, hands together, at a minimum tempo of moderato, students age 7 are allowed 5 finger scales).
• Play one solo piece.
• Memorization is highly encouraged but not required.

Vocalists:

• Perform one piece from memory.
• Accompaniment tracks may be used.

Dress Code & Audition Requirements

Music Dress Code:

Wear "Sunday best" for a polished presentation.

Music Live Audition Guidelines:

Before Performing:

• Introduce yourself (name and piece title).

During Performance:

• Demonstrate proper performance etiquette (bow before and after performing).

Evaluation Criteria

Students will be assessed on:

• Posture, tone, and accuracy
• Musicality, preparedness, and stage presence

Dancer Auditions

Dance auditions will take place in a guided group class led by the Arts Academy Dance Instructor, where students will be observed on their artistry, movement quality, and responsiveness to direction as they work through combinations.

Dancers Dress Code:

Students should arrive in proper dance attire (leotard, tights, ballet shoes, or dance pants) that allows for full range of movement.

Results Announcement

Results will be sent by direct email once the Scholarship Committee has reviewed all auditions.