Higher Educational Opportunities
Young Musicians Scholarship
APPLICATIONS are open now!
The Young Musicians Scholarship supports exceptional New Jersey high school seniors who are ready to pursue a life in music at an accredited college or university. In 2026, Music in the Somerset Hills will award a single $5,000 scholarship to a graduating senior majoring in music who demonstrates outstanding artistry, leadership, and commitment to using music to inspire and connect others. If you are a dedicated performer, composer, or music educator in the making, this is your opportunity to receive meaningful financial support and join a growing community of alumni making an impact on stages, in classrooms, and in their communities.
The Application can be filled out online and is due by 11:59pm on May 15, 2026. The scholarship winner will be announced by June 15, 2026 and the award will be distributed upon verification of enrollment.
Questions? Email stephen@musicsh.org
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Interested students should complete the application form, available here, including ALL of the following attachments:
1. Audio or video recordings of two (2) contrasting works, not exceeding four minutes per piece, performed by the applicant on their chosen instrument.
2. Two (2) letters of recommendation from teachers: one from a music teacher, and one from a teacher in another subject.
3. One essay describing why the applicant wishes to major in music. The essay must be typed with a 12-point font (preferably Times New Roman), single-spaced, and may not exceed one 8.5” x 11” page with one-inch margins on all sides.
4. One resumé detailing the applicant’s musical accomplishments to-date, including instruments studied, works performed, awards earned and the names of instructors. The resumé must be typed with a 12-point font (preferably Times New Roman), single-spaced, and may not exceed one 8.5” x 11” page with one-inch margins on all sides.
All applications must be received by May 15, 2026 at 11:59pm. Applications, including all attachments, may also be emailed to stephen@musicsh.org by 11:59 pm on the due date.
Applicants will be notified of the results by June 15, 2026. The winner will receive the scholarship upon verification of enrollment.
2025 Winners
Sophia Morrone: Inspiring the Next Generation
Sophia Morrone, who will attend Rider University this fall, has immersed herself in music from a young age. A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and passionate mentor, Sophia has performed in choirs, bands, and musicals, while also serving as a student teacher for her district’s middle school choir. Her leadership as Drum Major of the marching band and section leader in jazz band, as well as her soloist honors in the All South Jersey and New Jersey All State Choirs, speak to her dedication and artistry.
Sophia’s journey is deeply personal:
“Music has always been my guiding light,” Sophia shares. “Whether I’m on stage or helping younger students find their own voices, I feel a sense of joy and purpose that nothing else can give me. I hope to inspire others, just as my mentors have inspired me.”
Her vision for the future is clear—Sophia aspires to balance performing and teaching, ensuring that music continues to enrich both her life and the lives of those she teaches.
Rowan Mendel: A Life in Music, A Voice for Connection
Rowan Mendel, who will join Princeton University as part of its inaugural class of cello performance majors, found his calling with the cello at age nine. Since then, Rowan has become principal cellist for multiple orchestras, including the New Jersey Youth Symphony and the Sussex County Youth Orchestra. His repertoire spans Bach to Tchaikovsky, and his recent performance at NJPAC with a Holocaust-era cello for the Violins of Hope project was a transformative experience.
Rowan reflects:
“Music has taught me to listen deeply and to offer something meaningful to the world. On stage, I realized music isn’t just what I do—it’s what I can give. I am choosing a life in music because I believe in its power to bring beauty, connection, and healing.”
Rowan’s commitment to using music as a tool for empathy and remembrance exemplifies the values at the heart of Music in the Somerset Hills.
Scholarship Alumni Concert
A showcase of Recipients from past years:
Featuring:
Jasmine Meyer, Madelin Morales, Helen Cho, Nicole Streger, Emma Mistele, & Liz Leclerc