Instrumental and vocal performance scholarships are available to all talented musicians regardless of whether a student plans to major or minor in the music program. Scholarship amounts are awarded in the following manner:

Freshman year: $1,000
Sophomore year: $1,000
Junior year: $1,500
Senior year: $2,000
TOTAL: $5,500

If you receive a performance scholarship, you are required to participate in an ensemble and assist with minor administrative duties for that ensemble every term at Alma College. Students are also encouraged to take private lessons with our studio teachers (piano students are required to study privately each term). To be considered for a performance scholarship, you need to apply to Alma College and arrange for an audition with the Music Department. The toll free number for Admissions is 1-800-321-ALMA.

Students who receive a performance award may also be invited to a second audition to be considered for a larger scholarship that can equal full tuition. The award covers tuition costs for the year, less non-college government and private grants and scholarships. Any high school senior who has a 3.5 cumulative GPA or 25 ACT composite or is in the top 20% of a high school class is eligible. The student must also have applied and been accepted for admission at Alma College.

In certain circumstances, this audition may be accomplished via tape or video recording, however students are strongly encouraged to audition in person.

This competition is held in Presbyterian Hall of the Heritage Center for Performing Arts in the spring, and candidates are notified by letter of invitation. For the performance, students must perform a movement from a concerto or sonata or equivalent composition from the standard repertoire. Students must provide their own accompanist.

In addition to the two awardees, two alternates may be selected. Notification to the students will be made by letter during the following week. Acceptance of the scholarship requires that the student perform in an ensemble as assigned by the faculty and take studio lessons.

BAND AUDITIONS contact Mr. David Zerbe at (989) 463-7213 or zerbe@alma.edu to schedule an appointment.

PIANO AUDITIONS - phone Dr. Raymond Riley at (989) 463-7295 to schedule an audition date.

Can students perform in band and orchestra at the same time?

YES. Wind and percussion players enjoy the unique opportunity to perform with both the Kiltie Bands and the Alma Symphony Orchestra.

I'm not a music major, but can I still audition for a music scholarship?

YES. Anyone, regardless of major, may audition for a music scholarship. For more information contact Mr. David Zerbe at zerbe@alma.edu or Mr. Murray Gross at gross@alma.edu.

Do you have a competition marching band?

NO. Like other college marching bands we do not compete, however we are still dedicated to achieving the highest level of excellence at every performance.

Can I be a part of the band and orchestra staff?

YES. Paid positions exist for student band and orchestra staff including music librarian, equipment manager, and uniform manager to name just a few. Band and orchestra staff members are extremely reliable and dedicated musicians.