Classical Vocal Competition

After the example of its namesake, the great American bass-baritone, educator and mentor, the William Warfield Scholarship Fund enables African American classical vocalists to advance their art at the high school, college or conservatory level. African Americans have long been under-represented in the field of classical music, especially in the field of classical vocal performance. The William Warfield Scholarship Fund classical vocal competition to addresses this.

Bridge Support. This initiative represents the essential bridge between African American youths’ early musical training in worship, family or school settings and their acceptance into a school of music. It will provide students with cash support for formal training (the first for some applicants), audition preparation, music and practice time, connections and essential guidance from highly experienced artists and teachers of voice. In the process of competing, young artists will gain coaching from experienced professionals and exposure to music school recruitment and diversity officers, further enhancing their probability of success.

The pursuit of classical vocal performance requires not only natural physical gifts but ample resources of connections and funding that make high level training, exposure and opportunity possible. African Americans, because of structural, racial disadvantage in our society, often lack the resources to compete with their Asian and White peers for available scholarships and opportunities.

Even if institutions of higher education offer scholarships, African American students frequently do not have the preliminary training, musical background and connections to those institutions that would help win such assistance.

Our awards will be made in cash directly to the young artist to subsidize lessons, practice time and facilities, books and music and/or travel to auditions for music schools. Even one summer of advanced lessons can make all the difference in a career, and these awards would make them possible.

Please help us share this opportunity. If you are connected to youth serving organizations, choirs, schools etc. please make your students and colleagues aware of this opportunity! Post our flier, share this letter and help us encourage a new and wonderful class of talented African American vocalists.