Blackwood Now Accepting Applications for 2014 Music Scholarships

Pittsburgh, PA (PittsburghNewsWire.com) — Once again, the Blackwood Theater Organ Society will be awarding several scholarships to area high school seniors pursuing a college degree in instrumental music performance. Completed applications must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2014.

Applications will be reviewed by a screening committee and finalists will be required to audition at Heinz Hall in March before a panel of musicians from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Scholarships will be awarded on the basis of musical talent, recommendations from private and high school music teachers, academic performance, the written essay, motivation and financial need. Selected recipients will perform at a recital at the Blackwood Estate in Harrisville, PA in May.

Over the past thirteen years, the Society has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships to the top high school musicians. Scholarship amounts range from $3000 to $5000 with an average of six recipients per year. Past recipients have attended some of the most renowned music schools in the country including Julliard, the New England Conservatory of Music, Oberlin College, Berklee College of Music and the Eastman School of Music.

The Blackwood Theater Organ Society is a not-for-profit organization created to encourage students to pursue instrumental music performance careers. The Blackwood Estate is home to a rare Wurlitzer theater pipe organ and concerts featuring internationally-acclaimed performers are held annually with the proceeds going towards the scholarship fund and other charities.

For applications, deadlines and other information for the 2014 Blackwood Theatre Organ Society scholarships visit www.blackwoodmusic.org or contact Ben Robertson at ben@blackwoodmusic.org or by phone at 724.735.2813.