The Peninsula Music Festival has selected Spencer Berndt, a recent graduate of Gibraltar High School, as the recipient of their college scholarship. Spencer will be attending University of Wisconsin – Stout where he will major in computer science and minor in music
Each year the Peninsula Music Festival awards a $3000 scholarship to a graduating senior who desires to further his or her education in music. The recipient must be an outstanding music student, who has demonstrated his or her ability as a performer and has shown a sustained interest in music-related activities. Also, the student must major or minor in music while attending college.
Applicants must write an essay outlining his or her qualifications, including accomplishments in music, future plans, academic achievements, high school transcripts, and any other information he or she feels is appropriate for this music scholarship. Letters of recommendation must be received from a music professional and from the student’s high school principal. The Education Outreach Committee of the Board of Directors then reviews the applications and selects a recipient. The Peninsula Music Festival Scholarship is awarded for three years beginning with the sophomore year and continuing through the senior year. The recipient must send an annual update plus proof of continuing registration as a music student
“The committee was so impressed with Spencer’s essay and accomplishments,” said PMF Executive Director Sharon Grutzmacher. “He has worked extremely hard to keep music part of his life and recognizes its importance in his success as he continues his education.”
The Peninsula Music Festival will honor Spencer at the concert on Thursday, August 9 with his whole family in attendance. In addition to the annual college scholarship, the Peninsula Music Festival’s education outreach programs include Summer Music Awards, Internships, Karen Smuda Emerging Conductor Program, and the $10 Student Ticket Program.
The Peninsula Music Festival is a professional symphony orchestra presenting nine different symphonic concerts in three weeks each August. The 66th August Symphonic Season will run August 7 through 25 with concerts every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Highlights include pianist Andrew Armstrong, violinist Tessa Lark, a Tribute to Leonard Bernstein and much more. Tickets are available for all concerts. For information call 920-854-4060 or visit the website at www.musicfestival.com.