Desser Music Scholarship Fund

What you will need

• ✓ Indigenous affiliation
• ✓ Enrollment in an advanced level classical music program
• ✓ Application submitted by one of the three deadlines: August 1, November 1, or February 1

About this award

No fixed dollar amount is posted, but they describe the funding as substantial support. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if you are an Indigenous student pursuing advanced training in classical music, particularly if you play a string instrument. Deadlines come around three times a year on August 1, November 1 and February 1, so aim for whichever one is next. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Isidor Desser how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Isidor Desser during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Isidor Desser whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must have any Indigenous affiliation and be studying classical music at an advanced level. While any classical music student may apply, preference will be given to an individual studying a string instrument.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

• ✓ Open to undergraduate or graduate students
• ✓ Studying String Performance

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• ReferencesAvoid using a general teacher. Instead, provide a reference from a recognized conductor or professor who can vouch for your advanced classical training. Ask your primary instructor for a letter that specifically mentions your growth in classical performance.
• StrategyAvoid ignoring the preference for string players. Winners who play strings emphasize their instrument in the first paragraph of their application. If you play a different classical instrument, focus heavily on your advanced level of study to compete.
• RealismAvoid assuming the award is guaranteed because of the niche field. Keep in mind that while the pool is smaller, the standard for advanced classical music is very high. Treat this as a supplement to your funding rather than your only source of tuition.

Questions students ask

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