Through the generosity of community donors, Penrith Conservatorium is offering 10 highly sought-after scholarships to young musicians in the Greater Western Sydney region.
The scholarships are awarded either as full, covering the full cost of a 30-minute lesson, or half, covering half the cost of a 30-minute lesson at Penrith Conservatorium.
Applicants do not have to be an existing student of the Conservatorium to apply but will need to have acquired at least Grade 3 in their selected instrument. All instrumentalists should be 22 years or under in 2021 to apply. Vocalists 25 years old or younger in 2021.
The audition panel will consider the applicant's demonstration of technical ability, musicality, expression, phrasing, sensitivity and solo performance technique.
Successful scholarship recipients will need to be available for a minimum of four performances throughout the year, including the annual Conservatorium concert.
Applicants will need to prepare two contrasting pieces of music that show their musical and technical abilities. Each piece must not exceed four minutes in length. Two copies of the music must be presented at the audition.
Candidates will need to arrange their own accompanist if required. If using a backing track, please contact Conservatorium management prior to audition date.
The scholarships being awarded in 2021 are:
Full scholarships
- Richard Bonynge Scholarship (piano only)
- Malcolm Borland Scholarship (piano only)
- Penrith City Council Mayoral Scholarship (Penrith LGA residents)
- Berger Piepers Emerging Talent Scholarship (students aged 12 - 18)
Half scholarships
- Ars Musica Australis Scholarships
- Penrith City Council Regional Talent Scholarship (Penrith LGA residents)
- Jim Aitken Scholarship
- Elizabeth Aitken Scholarship
- 5 Star Training & Consulting Scholarship
All applications will need to be completed online at www.penrithconservatorium.com.au. Applications close Friday, November 27. Auditions are scheduled to be held at The Joan on Tuesday, December 15.