March 18, 2025
NATCHITOCHES – The Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society announced the allocation of $30,000 in scholarship funds aimed at supporting string players in their musical pursuits.
“This initiative, designed to provide financial assistance to students aspiring to hone their craft, is part of the broader commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians,” said Marion Johnston, NNSS president. “For the spring 2025 semester, 26 orchestral musicians received scholarships.”
The Symphony Society also revealed that it has amended its mission statement to expand its scholarship offerings. Initially focused on string instruments, the mission statement now includes additional funding for students of other orchestral instruments, allowing students broader access to music education.
“The expansion of our scholarship program reflects the evolving needs of our orchestra approach and our commitment to nurturing musical talent in every form,” Johnston said. “We are proud of our ability to offer financial support to a wider range of students, ensuring that talent, not financial means, is the only barrier to pursuing a career in music.”
The scholarship funds are made possible by the generosity and dedication of the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society’s 200+ loyal members, whose ongoing support has been integral to the success of its mission. As a nonprofit organization, the society relies on contributions from its members and patrons to continue its work, and this latest scholarship initiative highlights the direct impact of their investment in the arts.
The scholarships are for students who demonstrate exceptional skill and passion for their craft with funds awarded based on merit, with an emphasis on academic achievement, artistic potential and financial need. The NNSS scholarships provide opportunities for young musicians to continue their studies, participate in student workshops and perform with ensembles. With the additional focus on other orchestral instruments, the society is confident that this expanded initiative will contribute to the continued growth and diversity of the region’s music community, Johnston said.
For more information on the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society, visit www.nnssla.org.
Pictured: The Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society announced increased support for NSU orchestra students with a commitment of $30,000 for music student scholarships. Celebrating the announcement are, seated from left, Director of Orchestral Activities Douglas Bakenhus, NSU President James Genovese and Marion Johnston, NNSS president. On the second row from left are Juliana Miller Natalie Hyde, Perla Hipp, Fernanda Morales, José Mario Villeda, Maira Avellaneda Pabon, Meredith Corrales, Abigail Williams, Na’Riaya Sowell, Gabrielle Meziere, Ja’Nia Wallace, Jessyca Ludwig and Syll-Young Olson, assistant musical director. On the third row are Emilio Alveto Castro Lopez, Norman Martinez, Salome Uibe-Cardona, Santiago Rovira Ortiz, Aill Harris, Jonathan Chaparro, Zavion Sowell, Oscar Carballo and Scott Burrell, director of NSU’s Dear School of Creative and Performing Arts. On the back row are Carlos Diaz del Valle, Emma Velton, Ronald Zaldana, Brad Powell, William Shupak and Josias Ramos. Not pictured are Cecilia Smith, NNSS secretary; Gayle Howell NNSS treasurer, and Mary Lou Brown, NNSS president-elect.
