The Eastern University Department of Music is pleased to announce its first annual String Quartet Scholarship Program. This is an extraordinary opportunity for an emerging string quartet ensemble to 1) have a dedicated focus on the art and practice of chamber music, 2) expand string quartet and chamber music repertoire, 3) receive coaching and mentorship from the world renowned string music faculty, 4) engage in performance opportunities both on and off campus in the greater Philadelphia area, and 5) experience and contribute to the Christian values and vision of Eastern University. Any and all pre-formed and self-selected string quartet ensembles are encouraged to apply (US and/or international undergraduate).

Submission

Any candidate string quartet ensemble may submit a completed application (must be received by June 30, 2023), inclusive of:

• Letter of Interest (i.e. cover letter)
• Individual member biographies (minimum 250 words each; include how long have been playing, key influences, teachers, milestones, performances and ensemble experience).
• Ensemble Vision Statement (minimum 150 words; include short and long term goals, purpose, and aspirations).
• 3 Letters of Recommendations (recent - within the last calendar year upon date of application submission) from chamber music coaches (maybe also be private string teachers) and/or orchestra conductors. 
• Video links (i.e. Youtube of excerpts of the following repertoire categories:
  - Mozart (K. 387 or later) or early Beethoven (Op. 18): complete 1st movement
  - Romantic Era (e.g. Schubert, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Smetana, Dvorak, Tchaikovsky, Brodin, etc.) any complete movement
  - 20th/21st-Century (e.g. Shostakovich, Barber, Ravel, Debussy, Bartok, Hindemith, etc.) any complete movement
• Any other additional materials that will support the ensemble’s candidacy.

Eligibility 

• Chamber ensemble to be a pre-formed and self-selected traditional string quartet (2 violins, viola, cello).

• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble will be at an advanced level of proficiency
  - Violin: Mendelssohn Violin Concerto (or equivalent).
  - Viola: Hoffmeister Viola Concerto (or equivalent).
  - Cello: Lalo Cello Concerto (or equivalent).
• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble may be either a US or international student.
  - All international students to meet the Eastern University English Language Proficiency Requirements.
• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble to have completed a US high school diploma (or equivalent) upon enrollment at Eastern University.
• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble to enroll in a music performance or music education degree at Eastern University (undergraduate).
• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble to maintain good standing with the Eastern University and Music Department academic standards and code of conduct.
• Each individual of the string quartet ensemble to be in residence (room & board) at Eastern University (St. Davids campus) for the duration of each academic year semester.