The Barbara Thornton Memorial Scholarship is given by Early Music America to “an outstanding and highly-motivated (and possibly unconventional) young performer of medieval music who seeks to widen his/her experience through more advanced study and/or auditions in Europe.” The recipient is chosen by a jury of musicians who knew or worked with the great medieval music specialist and teacher, Barbara Thornton (1950-1998), who came to Europe from New York in 1970, filled with plans to study early music, and went on to co-found the medieval music ensemble Sequentia with Benjamin Bagby in 1977.
The intention of the Scholarship is to provide funding for study abroad, during the Summer or Fall of 2021. However, given the uncertainty introduced by the current COVID-19 pandemic, study and travel abroad may not be possible at that time. In this case, the funds awarded to the recipient of the Scholarship will be held until it is possible for the applicant to use them in the manner originally described in their proposal.
Eligibility
1) Applications are open to a young performer of medieval music who seeks to widen his/her experience through more advanced study and/or auditions in Europe.
2) Applicants should be citizens of the Americas who are under the age of 35 at the time of application.
3) Early Music America membership is required of all applicants. Historical performance students qualify for a one-year complimentary student membership. If you are unsure of your membership status, please email info@earlymusicamerica.org.
Application Instructions and Information
1) Completed online application forms must be submitted by Monday, April 5, 2021 at 11:59 PM ET.
2) Two letters of recommendation must be submitted by Friday, April 9, 2021 at 11:59 PM ET.
3) One recipient will receive a $4,000 scholarship.
4) Scholarship announcement will be made by Friday, May 7, 2021.
5) Questions may be sent to EMA at info@earlymusicamerica.org.
We highly encourage you to submit your application several days prior to the deadline, so we can resolve any issues in a timely matter. We will not be able to accept any applications after the deadline has passed.