The Basie is Giving Kids a Shot at Free Performing Arts Classes

Your child (under 18) could score free or partially-paid classes at The Count Basie Center for the Arts. Here's how to apply:

The goal of this scholarship to The Count Basie Center Academy of the Arts is to make music or arts education accessible to children or teens who would like to take classes at The Basie Center.

It's called The Pat DiNizio Musical Performance Scholarship and named after the musical legend and founder of The Smithereens. This scholarship began in 2018. Says Smithereens drummer and co-founder Dennis Diken,

“The DiNizio Musical Performance Scholarship offers a wonderful way to keep his spirit alive and pass along his passion for music and self-expression to enlighten young musicians for generations to come.”

This scholarship awards program will give one or two talented music students either a full or partial scholarship (of $500) to The Basie Center at their School of Music or Performing Arts Programs in the area of Vocal Performance, Musical Theater, or the Monmouth Conservatory of Music.

In order to apply, your child will have to submit an audition video that shows their proficienty, potential, and level of expertise. Your child will also be asked to describe his or her passion for music, goals, and what this scholarship would mean to them.

You have until Nov. 16th, 2020, to apply if you want your child to be considered.

Then, from November 17th through 19th, all candidates will be reviewed and a selection will be made for semi-finalists.

On Nov. 20th, The Basie will present the finalists to Jim Babjak and Dennis Diken of The Smithereens.

On Dec. 4th, The scholarship winners will be announced.

To apply, CLICK HERE.