Wilmington Choral Society

Dave Hardee Scholarship Program

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​Each year, The Wilmington Choral Society awards the Dave Hardee Scholarship for Vocal Performing Arts or Music Education to a graduating high school student in New Hanover, Brunswick or Pender County, who is active in a school, church or private choral program, and who plans to pursue vocal performing arts or music education at the college level.  The scholarship, named to honor the memory of one of our beloved past presidents, is funded by contributions from our members and from supportive donors, and will be offered in an amount up to $2,000.

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Eligibility

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• Graduating high school student in the Cape Fear Tri-County area (New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender County) during the 2024-2025 school year.

• Plans to pursue vocal performing arts or music education at the college level. Applicant is not required to major in music

• Currently an active member of a school, church or private school program during the 2024-2025 school year. Alternatively, applicant may be under the direction of a private school coach

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Rules & Requirements

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• Live auditions may be requested by the committee

• The decision of the committee judges is final

• If the applicant is a student or family member of a scholarship committee judge, that judge will recuse themselves from the selection process

• Recipient(s) are expected to apply their scholarship toward academic expenses

• Recipient(s) may be invited to perform as a guest soloist at the Wilmington Choral Society Spring Concert or alternatively at a WCS Rehearsal

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*** APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 28, 2025 ***

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A completed Application Package includes:

• Application Form

• Current Photo (jpeg format)

• Personal Statement sharing experience in the arts and plans for the future

• Performance Video containing 2 songs

  • Each selection should be of differing styles

  • Each selection should showcase vocal range and ability

  • Each selection should be between two minutes and three minutes in length

  • Video should be uploaded as an MP3 format when using the online application

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Apply Online at APPLICATION LINK  

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A paper application is also available for those needing those accommodations (paper application link). Mail all items listed above along with a USB drive containing performance video, postmarked by FEBRUARY 28, 2025 to:

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Wilmington Choral Society Scholarship

c/o Shar Rifkin

754 Sloop Point Lane

Kure Beach, NC 28449

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Contact info shar.rifkin@gmail.com

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