Wilmington Choral Society

Dave Hardee Scholarship Program

Each year, The Wilmington Choral Society awards the Dave Hardee Scholarship for Vocal Performing Arts or Music Education to a graduating high school student in New Hanover, Brunswick or Pender County, who is active in a school, church or private choral program, and who plans to pursue vocal performing arts or music education at the college level. The scholarship, named to honor the memory of one of our beloved past presidents, is funded by contributions from our members and from supportive donors, and will be offered in an amount up to $2,000.

Eligibility

Graduating high school student in the Cape Fear Tri-County area (New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender County) during the 2024-2025 school year.
Plans to pursue vocal performing arts or music education at the college level. Applicant is not required to major in music
Currently an active member of a school, church or private school program during the 2024-2025 school year. Alternatively, applicant may be under the direction of a private school coach

Rules & Requirements

Live auditions may be requested by the committee
The decision of the committee judges is final
If the applicant is a student or family member of a scholarship committee judge, that judge will recuse themselves from the selection process
Recipient(s) are expected to apply their scholarship toward academic expenses
Recipient(s) may be invited to perform as a guest soloist at the Wilmington Choral Society Spring Concert or alternatively at a WCS Rehearsal

Application deadline has passed.

We will be announcing our recipient soon!

Thanks and reach out with any questions!

Contact info shar.rifkin@gmail.com

Scholarship Donation
This scholarship goes to a high school senior who expects to continue their vocal experience in college or university.
You can help!

Dave Hardee Scholarship Award Winners

2024

Chase, a graduating senior at Coastal Christian High School, began singing in the Wilmington Boys Choir at a young age. Despite COVID interrupting his vocal studies, Chase remained interested in performing. Under the direction of Amy Tucker Morgan, Coastal Christian has a Men’s Ensemble, as well as an Honors Ensemble, and Chase is a member of both. He decided to pursue professional musicianship during his private voice lessons with Sara Westermark. He enjoys all genres of music and wants to enhance others’ appreciation of it as well. Chase has applied to several universities to pursue vocal performance and commercial music.

Chase Barnette