The deadline to apply for the Rick Lang Music College Scholarship is July 1 each year. IBMA members may apply for the $2,000 scholarship, which will be awarded for the upcoming fall semester. The scholarship may be used to help with college tuition or related expenses.
Applicants are not required to have a declared major in music, but they must already have demonstrated skills as a songwriter and plan to further their study of that art as a part of their college studies. Funds for the scholarship have been donated by Rick Lang, a Grammy-nominated writer who also serves as the chair of the IBMA Songwriter Committee and volunteers with the IBMA Songwriter Mentor Program.
Applicants must be current members of the International Bluegrass Music Association, at the Professional, Grassroots Club (Fan), College Student or Youth level. The IBMA is the nonprofit music association that connects, educates, and empowers bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community worldwide.
“I’m very excited about the launch of this scholarship launched in 2020 which is geared to help those furthering their education in the music/songwriting field,” says Rick Lang. “At this point in my life, my foremost goal is to give something back to the bluegrass community that has done so very much for me. The need for financial help has never been greater than it is now. Our youth desperately need our help, some positive news, and signs of hope for the future. My intent is that the scholarship will help make it affordable for students to enter a college program where they can chase their dreams and achieve their goals in music. I greatly appreciate the help and support of Nancy Cardwell and the IBMA Foundation in helping to set up the scholarship.”
Applicants will be required to fill out an online application, which includes sharing a link of a video performance of a song they have written or co-written. For more info, please call the IBMA Foundation at 615-260-4807 or email info@bluegrassfoundation.org.