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Classical music education builds more than musicians—it builds agency. In learning an instrument, a student learns to translate effort into beauty, persistence into skill, and self-expression into confidence. It teaches focus, patience, and emotional intelligence—the same skills that open doors in school, work, and life.

The Hester Savage Fund for Equity in Classical Music is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking down barriers of access to classical music, addressing structural inequities, and empowering students from diverse backgrounds to explore their musical potential. We provide the structure, mentorship, and long-term investment that turn artistic training into life training. Our goal isn’t simply to produce great performers; we want to create young people who know their worth, can imagine broader futures, and have the tools to reach them.

Through our HSF-accredited partner organizations, we award individual scholarships for a holistic music education. This includes, but is not limited to, private lessons, group classes, instruments, access to workshops and masterclasses, digital learning tools, and other wraparound supports that help students thrive—on stage, in school, and throughout their lives.

Rolling Applications & Financial Aid Decisions

We currently have a rolling application deadline through our partner San Ramon Academy of Music—you may apply for aid any time. Applications are reviewed within 15-20 business days, and decisions are communicated via email. If awarded aid, you will receive further instructions on verification and next steps. Please ensure all required documents are submitted promptly to avoid delays.

Students Apply Here
Donate Here

Our Partner Organizations

Would You Like to Be One of Our Partner Organizations?

HSF partners with organizations that offer vital services such as private music instruction, instrument rentals, transportation, and more to help remove barriers to music education. If your organization is ready to support talented young musicians, contact us about joining our network of partner organizations.

Partner Orgs Apply Here

Our Story

Empowering Talent Early:
The Essence of the Hester Savage Fund

The Hester Savage Fund for Equity in Classical Music is not just a scholarship program, it’s a legacy. Inspired by the incredible journey of Hester Savage, a prodigiously talented African American woman, the granddaughter of slaves, who overcame significant challenges to excel in classical music. Breaking barriers at Luisiana State University (LSU) by desegregating its halls in the 1950s, Hester achieved a Master’s in Piano Performance, while navigating and challenging the extreme racism of her era. Her exceptional journey is a testament to her remarkable resilience and enduring spirit, leaving a legacy that resonates through generations.

This scholarship was founded by James Daly, her grandson. Growing up, James was deeply moved by Hester’s struggles and triumphs in the classical music world. Her story, coupled with James’s own challenges in accessing music education, highlighted the enduring barriers in this field.

Transforming Lives Through Music:
Our Commitment to Equity and Legacy

We believe in the transformative power of early musical education. This scholarship embodies an ‘upstream’ solution to systemic inequities in classical music. By nurturing young talents from underserved communities, we aim to create meaningful pathways for diverse artists in this field. This approach addresses the core issue of access to high-level music education from a young age, ensuring that talent and passion are not hindered by financial constraints. The story of Hester Savage, our inspiration, echoes our commitment to overcoming adversity and fostering an inclusive musical environment.

It’s more than financial support; it’s a continuation of a family legacy that values talent, determination, and the transformative power of music. Music is a journey of mentorship, personal growth, and breaking barriers, setting a foundation for a more diverse and rich musical community and world at large.

Donor Portal

Your donation to the Hester Savage Fund makes a real impact. Not only does it support the musical and academic growth of talented, financially disadvantaged students, but it also allows you a unique connection to their journey.

As a donor, you will receive personal progress updates from students, teachers, and parents, offering a window into the real difference your contribution makes in their lives. Your support helps shape the future of classical music, ensuring that talent and dedication are nurtured, regardless of a student’s economic background.

Donate Here

Scholarship Requirements

Eligibility Criteria
  • Age range: 6-17 years
  • Demonstrated financial need
  • Must be from an underserved community or demonstrate a significant commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in classical music
  • Show musical aptitude
  • Commitment to attend at least 90% of scheduled music classes
  • Maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA in school
Scholarship Benefits
  • Partial or full coverage of private and group lesson fees
  • Provision of musical instruments
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Assistance with transportation
Key Dates
  • We currently have a rolling application deadline, so you may apply at any time. Applications are reviewed within 15-20 business days, and decisions are sent via email. If awarded aid, you will receive instructions on verification and next steps. To prevent delays, please submit all required documents promptly.

Required Documents for Application

  1. Household Income Information: Most recent tax return or two recent pay stubs for each working member.
  2. Number of Dependents: Include all dependents as defined by tax filing status.
  3. Statement of Financial Need: Description of any significant financial challenges (500 words max).
  4. Additional Financial Assistance: Details of any current financial aid or scholarships (200 words max).
    Academic Performance: Most recent report card.
  5. Music Performance Assessment: Video of the applicant playing their primary instrument.
  6. Personal Statement:
  • For parents/guardians of students under 13: Letter explaining the need for financial assistance.
  • For students aged 13 or older: Personal letter detailing their passion for music and reasons for seeking financial aid.

All personal statements should be uploaded as a PDF or Word document.

Ready to Apply?

Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the age, financial need, and academic requirements.

Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of financial status, school grades, and personal statement.

Fill Out Application: Complete the application form with accurate information.

Review & Submit: Double-check your application for completeness and accuracy before submitting.

Await Decision: Decisions will be communicated by the end of August.

As a donor, you will receive personal progress updates from students, teachers, and parents, offering a window into the real difference your contribution makes in their lives. Your support helps shape the future of classical music, ensuring that talent and dedication are nurtured, regardless of a student’s economic background.

Apply Here

FAQs

What does the scholarship cover?
Scholarships can cover all or parts of lesson tuition, class fees, recital fees, and examination fees. The award amount is based on financial need and the specific programs in which the student is enrolled.
Once awarded, financial assistance is provided until the end of August the next year, regardless of when the application was submitted. This means that if you receive aid, it will cover your tuition and associated fees up to that date. To continue receiving support beyond that date, you will need to go through the renewal process, submitting your application by February 30th for consideration for the upcoming school year. This policy ensures that financial assistance aligns with our fiscal planning and allows us to reassess and reallocate funds effectively to meet the needs of our music community.
Awards are calculated annually, considering the applicant’s financial need, cost of enrolled music programs, and the academy’s capacity to provide support. Each application is reviewed comprehensively to ensure fair and impactful distribution of funds.
Yes, you can still apply. However, you must disclose any other forms of financial aid or scholarships you receive as part of your application. This information helps us fully understand your financial situation.
Financial aid is awarded with consideration to the overall needs of the family, including families with multiple children enrolled in our programs. However, it’s important to note that a unique application must be submitted for each child seeking assistance. This allows us to accurately assess the individual needs and circumstances of each student. While aid is given with an understanding of the cumulative financial burden on the family, separate applications ensure that each child’s eligibility and need for support are properly evaluated. We do give special consideration to families with multiple applicants to ensure that financial assistance is distributed in a way that supports the family’s collective engagement in music education.
If your financial situation changes significantly, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. We understand that circumstances can change and are committed to supporting our music community through those changes.
Complete all sections of the application thoroughly and provide detailed documentation and thoughtful responses, especially in the personal statement or letter. Demonstrating a clear need for financial assistance and a passion for music education will help your application stand out.

Contact Us

Have more questions? We’re happy to help!

We welcome questions from curious parents and students, potential partners, vendor organizations, and anyone interested in our mission. Reach out to learn more about how you can get involved or how we can support your musical journey.