Scholarship Program
Purpose
Since 1947, the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix has invested in young musicians through scholarships that encourage a lifelong love of choral music. Our program began with the Murdock Memorial Scholarship, honoring David N. Murdock, a former director killed in World War II. Early recipients not only received tuition support but also performed with Orpheus, reflecting our commitment to excellence and community engagement.
Today, Orpheus awards need-based scholarships to:
- K–12 students participating in Phoenix-area youth community choirs
- Undergraduates pursuing college studies in choral music
Through these awards, we aim to expand access to quality choral experiences, nurture future educators and performers, and strengthen the connection between Orpheus and the broader Arizona music community.
Scholarship Application Period
- K–12 Youth Community Choir Scholarships
- Eligibility: Students in grades K–12 who live in the Phoenix metro area, are accepted into a community-based youth choir, and demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amounts: Up to $250 per student per semester (paid directly to the youth choir program).
- Use of Funds: Tuition for participation.
- Deadlines: August 1 (fall semester) and January 1 (spring semester).
- Undergraduate Choral Music Scholarships
- Eligibility: High school seniors or undergraduates planning to major in choral music (performance, music education, or conducting) at an accredited college or university, and who demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amounts: Up to $1,000 per year, renewable for up to four years with proof of enrollment, satisfactory progress, and continued need. Awards are paid directly to the student’s university account.
- Use of Funds: Tuition, fees, books, or other education-related expenses.
Requirements
Applicants are evaluated on:
- Demonstrated passion for choral singing
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher, choir director, or mentor
- Personal statement describing music’s role in their life
- Demonstrated financial need
- For undergraduates: proof of enrollment or acceptance into a college music program
Scholarship Application Process
Scholarship applications are now managed through Google Forms.
- [Apply for K–12 Youth Community Choir Scholarship »]
- Undergraduate Choral Music Scholarship Application
Supporting documents (recommendations, transcripts, optional recordings) may be uploaded directly in the application form.
The Orpheus Male Chorus Of Phoenix
PO BOX 64534
Phoenix, AZ 85082
Program Legacy
- 1947 – The Beginning: The Murdock Memorial Scholarship was established to honor David N. Murdock, providing tuition support and performance opportunities with Orpheus.
- 1976 – Program Formalized: Annual scholarships were created to support Arizona students pursuing advanced study in which music played a role.
- Today: Orpheus continues to provide need-based scholarships for both K–12 and undergraduate students, investing in the next generation of musicians, educators, and leaders.
Notable past recipients include:
- Richard Ollarsaba – acclaimed Mexican-American bass-baritone from Tempe, praised for his dynamic stage presence and international career.
- Jesús Galaviz – Phoenix Children’s Chorus alum, NAU graduate, and current choir director at Trevor G. Browne High School.
- Carmel (Richards) Groenwald – ASU graduate, Phoenix Chorale singer, and former choral music educator.
Contact
For questions, please email scholarship@orpheus.org or call 602-699-4556 (leave a message with your name, contact information, and inquiry).