Music Auditions & Scholarships

The Department of Music offers several privately funded music scholarships to students of all majors. All scholarships are for full-time students attending the main A-State campus. To be considered, all students must meet criteria, complete the form, and audition for their chosen area.

Visit the Music Audition & Scholarship Form

Regardless of major, all students must fill out the A-State Music Audition & Scholarship Form and audition for the A-State Music Department to be admitted into the program as well as considered for a music scholarship.

Auditions are held on designated audition days but may also be scheduled individually as needed.

Priority Deadline: April 1st

Audition Dates: 

  • Friday, February 13, 2026
  • Saturday, March 7, 2026
A-State Music Audition & Scholarship Form

AUDITIONS

Please note that priority consideration is given to those who audition prior to April 1st. Audition repertoire and requirements may differ per instrument or area but generally consist of a combination of etudes, scales, and sight-reading.

undergraduate AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba

  • undergraduate applicants should prepare one lyrical and one technical solo/étude.
    • ASBOA All-State études meet these requirements.
  • Major scales and chromatic scales (2 octaves when possible)
  • Sight-reading

 

GRADUATE (M.M.) AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Trumpet

  • Études: One étude selected from Charlier, Bitsch, Brandt or Longinotti.
  • Solos: One contrasting solo from a movement of a standard concerto or sonata or five to eight minutes from a single-movement work.
  • Excerpts: Three standard orchestral excerpts.
  • Candidates should choose works which best demonstrate their sound, range and techniques. For questions or assistance, please email Dr. Nairam Simoes.

 


Horn

  • The exposition of the first movement of any Mozart Horn Concerto (Nos. 1-4).
  • One contrasting solo from a movement of a standard work (ex. Strauss, Hindemith, Dukas, etc.).
  • Three standard orchestral excerpts such as (but not limited to):
    • Beethoven Symphony No. 3 (Horn 2, Trio)
    • Brahms Symphon No. 1 (Horn 1, mvt. 2)
    • Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 (Horn 1, low tutti)
    • Strauss Til Eulenspiegel (Horn 1, opening)
    • Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 (Horn 1, mvt. 2)
  • Please contact Evan Mino with any questions or to schedule a lesson or audition.

 


Trombone

applicants to the Master of Music program should prepare three works of contrasting style that exhibit musical and technical difficulty appropriate to graduate music study. Audition repertoire may include solos, études, and/or orchestral excerpts. Some examples are provided below:

  • First movement of a standard concerto, or first section of a larger scale, uninterrupted work. Examples include:
    • Grondahl Concerto Mvt. 1, or first page (up to Andante Marcia Funebre) in the David Concertino.
  • Two contrasting etudes. Examples include:
    • 1 Bordogni Vocalise and one Tyrell, Bitsch, Blazhevich, Arban Characteristic Study, or some other etude material that contrasts well with Bordogni.

 

Orchestral Excerpts are not required, but if applicants would like to play them, please prepare the following (second trombone unless otherwise noted):

  • Mozart Tuba Mirum Solo
  • Berlioz Hungarian March - 6 before square 20 to 2 before square 21
  • Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony - 1st trombone solos from Q to 2 after S
  • Wagner Ride of the Valkyries - pickup to 4 (B minor section) and pickup to 11 to fifth bar of 12 (second B major section)


Please contact Dr. Lucas Kaspar with any questions.

 


Euphonium

applicants should prepare:

  • One complete melodious etude
  • One complete technical etude
  • Two solo works:
    • One movement from a concerto in the standard repertoire
    • One movement from a sonata or other work with piano OR
    • Solo work with fixed media accompaniment
  • 3-5 standard orchestral and band excerpts of your choice
  • Sight-reading

 


Tuba

Graduate tuba applicants must demonstrate advanced proficiency on bass and contrabass tubas. applicants should prepare:

  • One complete melodious etude
  • One complete technical etude
  • Two solo works:
    • One movement from a concerto in the standard repertoire
    • One movement from a sonata or other work with piano OR
    • Solo work with fixed media accompaniment
  • 3-5 standard orchestral and band excerpts of your choice
  • Sight-reading
COLORGUARD
  • Auditions are announced in early March via a "Save the Date" email from Dr. Fisher.
  • Auditions are held on campus in late April and early May.
  • Students must prepare a 90-120 second routine to music of your choice showcasing flag, dance, or other colorguard skills.
  • The final part of the audition is a rehearsal clinic led by instructors and student leaders simulating marching band expectations.
  • All members (new and returning) must audition each year.
  • Results are announced after the final audition date.
  • If you are interested, please fill out our Colorguard Interest Form.

 

TWIRLER
  • Auditions are only held in the spring when an opening is expected in the upcoming fall.
  • Auditions include two phases.
  • Phase 1:
    • Submit a formal application with a cover letter, resume, and links to recent twirling videos.
  • Phase 2:
    • Participate in an on-campus audition consisting of an original routine, a performance of our fight song routine, and an interview with the selection committee.
  • For more information, please contact Dr. Allegra Fisher.
undergraduate REQUIREMENTS
  • applicants must submit the following materials:
    • A portfolio of up to three (3) compositions that are representative of their best work (All scores should be sent as PDFs).
    • Audio recordings for each submitted composition (live performances preferred).
    • A list of all compositions and performances of the applicant's compositions to date.
  • If applicant does not have a substantial output prior to beginning their collegiate studies, they will be a probationary composition student.
    • The status of the student will be re-evaluated after their first semester and at their proficiency exam at the end of their second semester, pending successful progress.

 

GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS
  • applicants must submit the following materials:
    • A portfolio of three (3) compositions that are representative of their best work (All scores should be sent as PDFs).
    • Audio recordings for each submitted composition (live performances preferred).
    • A list of all compositions and performances of the applicant's compositions to date.


For more information, please contact Dr. Nathan Froebe.

M.M. CHORAL CONDUCTING

applicants must complete the following:

  • Apply to Arkansas State University
  • Submit a screening video of current teaching of 20-25 minutes using examples of rehearsals and performances.
    • It is recommended to include footage of contrasting ensemble ages and/or abilities.
  • Submit a curriculum vitae and transcripts of all university coursework to date.
  • Have letters sent by three professional references.

applicants may be invited to:

    • Lead an in-person ensemble rehearsal of approximately 20 minutes with contrasting repertoire to be determined by the Direct of Choral Activities.
    • Interview with the Choral and Conducting faculty.
    • Complete a musicianship skills examination.

 

M.M. INSTRUMENTAL CONDUCTING

applicants must complete the following:

  • Apply to Arkansas State University
  • Submit a screening video (YouTube link is preferred) of current teaching/conducting of 10-15 minutes using examples of rehearsals and performances.
    • It is recommended to include footage of contrasting ensemble ages and/or abilities.
  • Submit a resume and transcripts of all university coursework to date.
  • Have letters sent by three professional references.

applicants may be invited to:

  • Audition with the University Wind Ensemble on repertoire selected by the Director of Bands, and
  • Interview with the Band faculty.
undergraduate REQUIREMENTS

All students wishing to purse an undergraduate degree in music education will follow the audition procedures for their major voice part or instrument.

 

GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS

All students wishing to purse a graduate degree in music education should submit the following to Andrew Bohn, Coordinator of Instrumental Music Education, or Dr. Marques J. Ruff, Coordinator of Vocal Music Education:

  • Official transcripts for coursework and degree completion verification in music education or an approved equivalent.
  • A Letter of Interest (minimum of 500 words, maximum of 750) stating current professional status/goals after obtaining the MME degree and a brief overview of your philosophy of music education.
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
  • A minimum of three (3) professional letters of recommendation.
  • A video recording of you teaching an ensemble/group music lesson (minimum of 5 minutes, maximum of 10 minutes).


In addition to the above requirements, the following grades and scores must be achieved:

  • Unconditional Admission - A minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 (or 3.25 on the last 60 hours).
  • Conditional Admission - A minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 (or 3.00 on the last 60 hours).
 undergraduate REQUIREMENTS

Keyboard

  • A two-mallet solo or etude (such as an etude from Goldenberg "Modern School" book, a movement from a Bach Cello Suite, or a ragtime xylophone solo).
  • A four-mallet solo or etude (optional, but required for maximum scholarship consideration).
  • Two-mallet sightreading.

 


Snare Drum

  • A concert-style solo or etude (such as an etude from the Cirone "Portraits in Rhythm" book or the Peters "Advanced Snare Drum Studies" book).
  • A rudimental/marching-style solo or etude (such as a solo from Wilcoxon's "All-American Drummer" book or Pratt's "14 Modern Contest Solos" book) OR six rudiments: Long Closed/Multiple Bounce Roll (soft-loud-soft), Long Open/Double-Stroke Roll (slow-fast-slow), Single Paradiddles, Flam Tap, Single Ratamacue, and a rudiment of the student's choosing.

 


Timpani

  • A solo or etude (such as an etude from the Whaley "Musical Studies for the Intermediate Timpanist" book, the Firth "Solo Timpanist" book, or the Goodman "Modern Method for Timpani" book).

 

GRADUATE AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Keyboard

  • A four-mallet solo of suitable difficulty (marimba or vibraphone).
  • Two contrasting orchestral excerpts (can include excerpts for glockenspiel, xylophone, or vibraphone).
  • Two-mallet sightreading.

 


Snare Drum

  • A concert-style solo of suitable difficulty (such as an etude from the Delecluse "Douze Etudes" book, a solo from "The Noble Snare" collection, or similar.
  • Two substantial orchestral excerpts (such as "Lt. Kije," Scheherezade," etc.).

 


Timpani

  • A solo or etude of suitible difficulty OR a collection of three contrasting orchestral excerpts including an early Classical excerpt (i.e. Mozart or Haydn), a Beethoven excerpt, and a Romantic or later excerpt (i.e. Brahms or Tchaikovsky).

 


Multiple Percussion

  • A solo or etude of suitible difficulty (video recordings will be accepted).

 


Drum Set and/or World Percussion (optional)

  • At least three patterns from diverse styles with appropriate fills or solos (must be played without a recording: please contact Dr. Brian Graiser with questions regarding instrument availability).

 

For more information about auditions, please contact Dr. Brian Graiser.

Please consult Dr. Lauren Schack Clark in advance with questions about eligibility of specific pieces.

International students and others may send video links.

undergraduate REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor of Music

  • Prepare at least three works of contrasting styles and time periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, After 1900) from the standard repertoire, to be performed from memory.
  • Students may be asked to sight read a short piece.



Bachelor of Music Education & Bachelor of Arts

  • Prepare at least two works of contrasting styles and time periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, After 1900) from the standard repertoire, to be performed from memory.
  • Students may be asked to sight read a short piece.

 

GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS

Master of Music with Emphasis in Piano Performance/Piano Performance and Pedagogy

  • Prepare at least three works of contrasting styles and time periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, After 1900) from the standard repertoire, to be performed from memory.
  • Students will be asked about prior knowledge of scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions, and may be asked to sight read a short piece.



Master of Music with Emphasis in Collaborative Piano Performance

  • Students will be asked to prepare 1-2 works from the standard art song, opera, instrumental, or chamber music repertoire, preferably performed with a partner(s).

  • They should also prepare at least one work from the standard solo piano repertoire, to be performed from memory or with the music.
  • Students will be asked to sight read a short piece.
undergraduate & GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS

Violin, Viola, Cello

  • One movement of a standard concerto.
  • One movement from solo Bach (BWV 1001-1006 for violin; BWV 1007-1012 for viola and cello).
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Jenny Cao.

 


Bass

  • Two works or movements in a contrasting style (undergraduate ONLY).
  • One movement of a standard concerto (Graduate ONLY).
  • One movement from a solo Bach suite, BWV 1007-1012 (Graduate ONLY).
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Jenny Cao.

 

 

Guitar

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Students new to the choral program who are auditioning for a Choral Scholarship will complete three components of the audition:

  • Perform from memory a solo of classical, musical theatre, or folk music (an accompanist will be provided).
  • Demonstrate musicianship skills of sight singing and pitch memory.
  • Give a brief interview with faculty.

 

All returning singers will complete a brief scholarship audition with choral faculty.

 

For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Ryan Sullivan.

undergraduate REQUIREMENTS

Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon

  • undergraduate applicants should prepare one lyrical and one technical solo/etude.
    • ASBOA All-State etudes meet these requirements.
    • Saxophone applicants may audition/major on any consort member.
  • Major scales and chromatic scale (2-3 octaves when possible).
  • Sight-reading.

 

GRADUATE (M.M.) AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Flute

  • Exposition of 1st Mvt. of Mozart Concerto (G or D) without cadenza.
  • A contrasting solo piece or movement from a sonata or concerto.
  • Two orchestra excerpts from the following:
    • Beethoven Leonore No. 3 - m. 328-360
    • Brahms Symphony No. 4, Mvt. 4 - m. 89-105
    • Debussy Afternoon of a Faun - m. 1-4 and rehearsal 2-3
    • Mendelssohn A Midsummer Night's Dream - Scherzo
  • Accompaniment not required.
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Stephanie Hoeckley.

 

 

Oboe

  • Movement of a Concerto.
  • Contrasting solo piece or movement from a Sonata or Concerto.
  • Two orchestral excerpts to be selected from:
    • Ravel Le Tombeau de Couperin, Prelude - m. 1 to #4
    • Rossini La Scala di Seta - Pickup to m. 6 through #1 and 4 measures before #2 through #3
    • Beethoven Symphony No. 3, Mvt. 2 - m. 7-56
    • Brahms Violin Concerto, Mvt. 2 - m. 1-32
    • Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4, Mvt. 2 - m. 1-21
    • Stravinsky Pulcinella Suite, Mvt. 4 - Theme and Variation 1
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Kristin Leitterman.

 

 

Clarinet

  • A movement from a Classical or Romantic-era work (for example: Mozart Concerto or Brahms Sonatas).
  • A 20th or 21st century work (for example: Hindemith Sonata, Stravinsky Three Pieces, or Copeland Concerto).
  • A third contrasting work.
    • This requirement may also be met by preparing 3-4 standard orchestral excerpts (for example: Mendelssohn Scherzo, Beethoven Symphony No. 6, or Brahms Symphony No. 3).
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Erin Cameron.

 

 

Saxophone

  • All major and minor scales (full range).
  • One concert etude (Bozza, Lauba, Ferling, etc.).
  • Two contrasting solo movements (at least one movement must be performed on the alto saxophone):
    • Soprano
      • Alessandro Marcello: Concerto
      • Rodney Rogers: Lessons of the Sky
      • Giacinto Scelsi: Tre Pezzi
      • Heitor Villa-Lobos: Fantasia

    • Alto
      • William Albright: Sonata
      • Paul Creston: Concerto
      • Ingolf Dahl: Concerto
      • Edison Denisov: Sonate
      • Alfred Desenclos: Prelude, Cadence et Finale
      • Alexander Glazunov: Concerto
      • Karel Husa: Elegie et Rondeau
      • Jacques Ibert: Cocnertino da Camera
      • Henri Tomasi: Concerto

    • Tenor
      • Michael Cunningham: Trigon, Op. 31
      • Frank Martin: Ballade
      • John Worley: September Sonata
    • Baritone
      • David Canfield: Sonata
      • David Cunningham: Sonata
      • Mark Watters: Rhapsody
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Elissa Kana.

 

 

Bassoon

  • First movement of a concerto by Mozart, Weber, or Vivaldi.
  • Contrasting solo piece or movement from a sonata or concerto.
  • 2 orchestral excerpts selected from this list:
    • ​Mozart Marriage of Figaro - m. 1-24
    • Stravinsky Rite of Spring - m. 1-15
    • Ravel Bolero - Rehearsal #2 to #3
    • Rimsky-Korsakov Scheherazade - m. 5 to A AND rehearsal L to M
    • Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 - Mvt. 2 m. 274–end
    • Bartok Concerto for Orchestra, Mvt. 2 - m. 8–24 AND m. 164–180​
  • For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Kristin Leitterman.

Scholarships

To be considered for music scholarships, you must first apply and audition for the appropriate area of study (e.g., Band, Choral, Strings) and then participate in the required ensembles. Privately funded music scholarships may also be awarded to eligible students, but must be applied for separately. Regardless of major, all students MUST audition to be considered for music scholarships.

Incoming and current students majoring in music are eligible for these scholarships. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

DONALD R. AND VIRGINIA MINX MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be junior music or non-music majors
  • Have strong musical and academic skills
  • Be active in community service and service to music at A-State

 

L.H. STERNHEIMER FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a graduating senior from Jonesboro High School with a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Plan on attending A-State
  • Demonstrate sound moral character and social-emotional adjustment
  • Participate in extracurricular activities
  • Must maintain a 3.0 or higher as a full-time student of A-State
  • Preference is given first to a double major in keyboard and vocal music; second to a major in keyboard; third to a major in vocal music; fourth to any music major

 

JOHN H. AND IRENE N. NEELEY MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a junior or senior music major
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Be from the Jonesboro or Western Poinsett County area
  • Demonstrate scholastic achievement, musical talent, dedication to the study of music, citizenship, and financial need

 

DAN ROSS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a sophomore or higher majoring in music
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Reapply for renewal if desired

We offer one of the best band scholarship programs in the Mid-South. All eligible students in the A-State Bands, both music majors and non-music majors, receive some type of scholarship. These scholarships can total nearly $5,000 per year.

ELIGIBILITY & AUDITIONS
PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
  • Students awarded a band scholarship must participate in:
    • Marching Band during the fall semester, and
    • At least one concert ensemble during the spring semester.
  • Higher scholarship amounts may require participation in additional ensembles, and private lessons.
  • All specific requirements will be detailed in the student’s scholarship offer letter.

 

ADDITIONAL INSTRUMENTAL SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
  • Instrumental scholarships are also available for students in the Howlers Volleyball and Basketball Pep Bands.
    • Auditions for Pep Bands will be announced during the school year.
  • These scholarships are awarded at the end of each semester based on participation.
  • For more information, contact Dr. Allegra Fisher.
Colorguard & Feature Twirler Scholarships

Our choral scholarship program is one of the strongest in the region. Students of every major across campus are eligible for this scholarship, which ranges from $1,200 to $5,000 per academic year.

ELIGIBILITY & AUDITIONS

Incoming and current students are eligible for scholarships specifically for those interested in composition. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

STEWARD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time student at A-State
  • Reapply for renewal at the end of the year if desired

Preference is given to music majors in this order:

  • Strings
  • Composition
  • Vocal Music Education

Incoming and current students are eligible for numerous scholarships specifically for those majoring in piano. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

LILY PETER KEYBOARD SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be keyboard majors
  • Maintain satisfactory progress in their keyboard studies
  • Provide service in the form of accompanying or other duties as assigned in the music department
  • Demonstrate talent and performance in audition

 

W.J. BEARD MEMORIAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be an incoming freshman majoring in piano or organ, OR a current piano or organ major
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Provide service in the form of accompanying or other duties as assigned in the music department
  • In the event that a qualified student does not have a 3.0 GPA, they may still be considered if there is visible potential for academic improvement

 

DR. J. D. KELLY PIANO SCHOLARSHIP FUND

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in piano
  • Perform an audition for the keyboard faculty
  • Maintain satisfactory progress in academics and performance to renew this scholarship in future semesters

 

JANNA LAMBERT MEMORIAL KEYBOARD SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be incoming freshmen majoring in piano or organ
  • Have an ACT score of at least 20
  • Perform a memorized audition for the keyboard faculty
    • Memorized audition music should be at least equal to the difficulty level of the Sonata in G major, Op. 79 by Beethoven
  • Provide service in the form of accompanying or other duties as assigned in the music department

 

L.H. STERNHEIMER FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a graduating senior from Jonesboro High School with a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Plan on attending A-State
  • Demonstrate sound moral character and social-emotional adjustment
  • Participate in extracurricular activities
  • Must maintain a 3.0 or higher as a full-time student of A-State
  • Preference is given first to a double major in keyboard and vocal music; second to a major in keyboard; third to a major in vocal music; fourth to any music major

 

Incoming and current students are eligible for scholarships specifically for those interested in jazz. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

Bill bell jazz

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time student who is a sophomore or higher with previous jazz band membership
  • Demonstrate a strong commitment to the A-State jazz music program, including exemplary rehearsal and performance attendance
  • Show excellence in and/or improved performance in the A-State jazz music program
  • Demonstrate instrumental proficiency, improvisation skills, and jazz music literacy (e.g. familiarity with jazz artists, composers, history, etc.)
  • Commit to the preservation and future of jazz music

 

DR. THOMAS MILES O'CONNOR AWARD FOR JAZZ PERFORMANCE

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be sophomores or higher with previous jazz band membership
  • Be committed to the A-State jazz music program through exemplary rehearsal and performance attendance
  • Demonstrate excellence or improvement in jazz performance, instrumental proficiency, improvisation skills, and jazz music literacy
  • Demonstrate outstanding ensemble and solo performance in jazz
  • Commit to the preservation and future of jazz music

Incoming and current students are eligible for scholarships specifically for those interested in string instruments. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

ANN AND ALBERT SWATY STRINGS SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be full-time or incoming full-time students at A-State
  • Participate in A-State Orchestra
  • Take string lessons from A-State faculty
  • Have a minimum 2.5 GPA

 

IAN THOMAS MEMORIAL ANNUAL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time upper-level vocal Music Education major
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Be a member of the Honors College
  • Demonstrate a passion for their field and lead others to that passion
  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA and full-time status at the end of the fall semester to receive the remainder of the award for the spring semester

 

STEWARD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time student at A-State
  • Reapply for renewal at the end of the year if desired

Preference is given to music majors in this order:

  • Strings
  • Composition
  • Vocal Music Education

Incoming and current students are eligible for scholarships specifically for those interested in vocal music. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

L.H. STERNHEIMER FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a graduating senior from Jonesboro High School with a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Plan on attending A-State
  • Demonstrate sound moral character and social-emotional adjustment
  • Participate in extracurricular activities
  • Must maintain a 3.0 or higher as a full-time student of A-State
  • Preference is given first to a double major in keyboard and vocal music; second to a major in keyboard; third to a major in vocal music; fourth to any music major

 

JULIA LANSFORD VOCAL SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a junior or senior vocal music major
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Be pursuing a Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Music Education degree
  • Perform for a committee if selected to be a finalist

 

ALFRED R. SKOOG CHORAL ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be pursuing a Master of Choral Conducting or a Master of Music Education degree
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Preference is given to former students of Mr. Alfred Skoog or A-State graduates

 

FOUST FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time student who is a graduate of Harrisburg, Cross County, Wynne, or Forrest City High School
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Be a junior or senior at A-State
  • Be majoring in Vocal Music Performance, Vocal Music Education, Agriculture, or Business
  • Must be enrolled in at least one choral ensemble

 

ROBIN MARTIN YATES VOCAL SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time upper-level A-State student with at least 30 hours completed
  • Be majoring in vocal music
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.75

 

THE JEFFREY STEWARD MEMORIAL VOCAL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a junior or senior vocal music performance major
  • Reapply for renewal each year if desired

 

STEWARD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time student at A-State
  • Reapply for renewal at the end of the year if desired

Preference is given to music majors in this order:

  • Strings
  • Composition
  • Vocal Music Education

 

IAN THOMAS MEMORIAL ANNUAL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time upper-level vocal Music Education major
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Be a member of the Honors College
  • Demonstrate a passion for their field and lead others to that passion
  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA and full-time status at the end of the fall semester to receive the remainder of the award for the spring semester

Incoming and current students are eligible for scholarships specifically for those interested in woodwinds, brass, and/or percussion. The amount and requirements for these scholarships vary.

ANN SLAUGHTER SMITH SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a member of the Sound of the Natural State Marching Band
  • Be a full-time student of any major
  • Be in good academic standing with the university

 

IAN THOMAS MEMORIAL ANNUAL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP

To qualify for this scholarship students must:

  • Be a full-time upper-level vocal Music Education major
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Be a member of the Honors College
  • Demonstrate a passion for their field and lead others to that passion
  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA and full-time status at the end of the fall semester to receive the remainder of the award for the spring semester

At A-State, we are able to help support our graduate students with various funding opportunities, including Graduate Assistantships and privately funded scholarships. 

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS

Students will apply for Graduate Assistantships through the Department of Music once admitted to the university.  The admissions procedure is an application and supplemental materials dependent on the student's degree program. Assistantships carry an out-of-state tuition waiver and a stipend totally approximately $9,000.  Assistantship duties vary depending on the student's degree program and needs of the Department of Music.  Priority deadline for consideration is February 1.

Woodwind, brass, or percussion students who are majoring in Wind Conducting, Instrumental Performance, or Music Education may wish to be considered for Graduate Assistantships through the A-State Bands, which provide additional source of funding and responsibilities with the A-State Bands program.

Visit the Private Scholarship Portal

Privately funded scholarships are funded through individual donors, corporations or private companies who wanted to give back to Arkansas State and its students.

This portal was created so students could apply one time and the system would match you up with as many scholarships in which you qualify.

The portal is open every October 1 and closes February 1.

The application submission is valid for the upcoming academic year. You must resubmit an application each year you are enrolled at Arkansas State University. 

Please note: All students auditioning for the A-State Music Program must complete the Music Audition & Scholarship Form, even if they are also applying for private scholarships through the general portal.

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