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The Duke Ellington Scholarship Fund

About the Fund

Named in honor of the legendary musician and pioneer of American jazz, The Duke Ellington Scholarship at FAME Center is dedicated to upholding his legacy of innovation, excellence, and inclusivity in the arts. We believe that every child deserves the chance to explore their artistic potential and pursue their passions.

 

Thanks to the generosity of FAME Center partners, and their continuing contribution to this fund, we are able to provide financial-aid scholarships and merit scholarships to students as they pursue their journey in the arts.

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NEEDS-BASED SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

This ensures that children whose families demonstrate financial need can participate in our transformative arts programs. Financial aid supports student participation in private lessons, group classes and art therapy. Students who receive financial aid must show commitment through attendance and achievement to remain eligible for continued financial aid. A more complete list of commitments is below.

While FAME Center strives to provide as much aid as is needed, it is a limited resource and is awarded on a first come, first served basis. 

 

Award Details

●  Awards are determined on a sliding scale up to 90%

●  Awards supplement payments made for tuition. Remaining balances are eligible for a payment plan.

For more information about the financial aid application process and expectation, please visit our FAQ page.

 

Application Details

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications must include a completed Application Form and supporting financial documentation.

MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Merit Scholarships are awarded to FAME Center students who show a high level of commitment and achievement in their FAME studies. Students must be enrolled at FAME Center for a minimum of 1 year, and must be nominated by their instructor to be eligible for a Merit Scholarship. Once nominated a separate application form will be sent to the student for completion.

ALL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Recipients of The Duke Ellington Scholarship Fund at FAME Center are asked to first and foremost be the student they want to be as they devote time and energy to their arts education. In order to maintain their scholarship recipients must adhere to certain promises:

 

  • Commitment to Excellence: Demonstrate a strong commitment to your artistic growth and development. Attend all scheduled private lessons and recitals with diligence and enthusiasm.


  • Academic Responsibility: Maintain satisfactory academic standing in your school or educational program. Prioritize your studies while pursuing your artistic endeavors.


  • Community Engagement: Dedicate a minimum 2 of volunteer hours per quarter at FAME Center to support community arts initiatives, events, and outreach programs.


  • Communication and Feedback: Communicate openly and respectfully with your instructors, mentors, and fellow students. Seek feedback and guidance to support your artistic growth and development.


  • Gratitude and Reflection: Express gratitude for the opportunities provided through The Duke Ellington Scholarship Fund. Reflect on your journey, celebrate your achievements, set goals for your future artistic endeavors, and thank those who have invested in your artistic journey.

 

By embracing these requirements, we know our students will not only benefit from the opportunities provided by the scholarship, but will in turn contribute positively to our community and the broader arts ecosystem, creating a full circle of scholarship.

INSTRUMENT / SUPPLIES REQUEST

We believe that the quality of instruments and materials used in studying music and the arts has a significant effect on a student's learning and desire to engage in their lessons and classes! We also know that these items can be a substantial financial investment, and that can be burdensome for some students. Submit THIS form to let us know that you or your student are in need of supplies for one of our classes, or to let us know that you would like to receive a donated instrument as one becomes available! 

1319 S. State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60605

312-469-0667

© 2023 FAME Center

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