Rising Stars™ Program

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SO, WHAT IS RISING STARS™?

• Rising Stars™ is an opportunity for students to work one-on-one with a professional music teacher and become a better musician.
• If a student is selected, Infinite Music™ pays for lessons, so there is no cost to the student or student’s family.
• Rising Stars™: 10 weeks of private music lessons (Grades 6-12)
• This is an opportunity for students to refine their skills, learn something new, and take their music further.

And yes—it's really FREE!

WHO CAN APPLY?

• Students in 6th through 12th grade can apply for the Rising Stars™ program.
• All instruments and voice are eligible, including piano, guitar, strings, band and orchestral instruments, and voice.
• There are two important things to remember:

1. Students may submit only one application.
2. Students who are currently taking lessons are not eligible to apply.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO APPLY?

• The application is completed online and is called the Student/Parent Application because we need information and permission from your parent or guardian.
• You'll also need an endorsement from a music teacher, counselor, or other teacher/educator, including their contact information.
• There's also a section where your parent or guardian can tell us why they think you would benefit from this opportunity. Encourage them to share their thoughts—we really want to hear their perspective.

HERE'S OUR BIGGEST APPLICATION TIP

• Take your time and be yourself.

The Selection Committee wants to learn about you as a musician.

• Tell us:
• What do you love about music?
• What have you accomplished?
• What would you like to improve?
• What are your musical goals?
• What would it mean to you to work with a professional music mentor?
• Don't worry about trying to sound impressive. We want to hear your authentic voice and understand what music means to you. Thoughtful, personal answers are much more meaningful than one- or two-sentence answers.

THIS IS A COMPETITIVE AWARD

• Rising Stars™ is open to students throughout the county, and being selected is an honor.
• Last year, 154 students applied and 70 students received awards.
• If you're selected, you'll also be making a commitment. Your teaching artist is a professional musician who is investing their time and expertise in you.
• Show up. Be prepared. Practice. Ask questions. And make the most of your opportunity.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU'RE SELECTED?

• The Selection Committee makes its decisions in October, and award recipients are notified in early to mid-November.
• Lessons typically begin after the first of the year and take place from approximately January through May.
• You'll work with your teaching artist to schedule your lesson time.
• You'll also will participate in a Rising Stars™ performance Showcase in late April, where you can share what you've learned with your family and friends.
• And if you show exceptional dedication, you may have the opportunity to apply for additional lessons beyond the initial 10 or 20 weeks.

IMPORTANT: THE DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 1!

• Don't wait until the last minute.
• Applications must be submitted by October 1st. No applications can be accepted after the deadline.
• Make sure your contact information is correct because that's how we'll contact you if you're selected.

Ready to apply? Click here to fill out an application.