Calgary Foundation · Regional
Douglas Parnham Memorial Scholarship
About this award
Get $1,000 for your tuition if you are a Canadian music student specializing in choral music and education — apply by May 15, 2026.
You can receive one award valued at $1,000. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a dedicated musician who loves teaching youth and leading choirs. You must apply by May 15, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Calgary Foundation how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. The money is applied directly to tuition. Confirm with your school's financial aid office how this appears on your account so you can plan your payments. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Calgary Foundation whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.
Can you get it?
- Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident — citizenship requirement
- Undergraduate, Graduate — study level
- Studying music, Choral Music, Music Education — field of study
How to apply
Review eligibility and gather your documents~1 hour
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Collect reference letters2 weeks
Give your referees at least two weeks' notice and share your résumé.
Submit by May 15, 2026~1 hour
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.
More details
The biggest mistake is listing your choir memberships as a simple list.
Winners instead describe specific moments where they led a rehearsal or mentored a younger singer to prove their leadership in choral conducting.
Write about a specific time you improved a group's sound.
The biggest mistake is providing a generic letter from a teacher who barely knows you.
Winners provide one letter of reference from a conductor or music professor who can vouch for your specific skills in choral music and education.
Ensure your referee mentions your passion for youth music.