Scholarships
Financial Scholarship Applications for 2026–27 will open shortly.
The Colburn Community School of Performing Arts welcomes students of varying levels of experience and instruction. We recognize that some students may require financial support to cover the cost of their studies. Thanks to the generosity of individuals and foundations both locally and nationally, the Community School offers robust scholarships for students who are enrolled in private lessons, ensembles, and group classes.
Scholarships are offered during the fall and spring semesters; we do not offer scholarships for the summer session. Scholarships are only available for students ages 7 months to 18 years, or grade 12 and under.
Please note that financial assistance is limited. Completion of an application does not guarantee granting or receipt of award funds.
Families can apply for financial scholarships online. If you require assistance with your application, please contact the Community School office at cspa@colburnschool.edu or 213-621-4548.
Need-Based Scholarships
The Colburn School offers financial assistance through the Access Fund, which is supported by our generous donors. Awards are distributed for the fall and spring semesters; there are no awards for the summer session. Need-Based Scholarships are issued on a sliding scale based on financial need, and they can cover 10–90% of a student’s tuition. Students may apply the award towards 1) a maximum of two group classes, including ensembles OR 2) applied private instruction, up to 60 minutes weekly. Students must re-apply each year.
We require a family’s most recent tax filing documents to show proof of income. We expect families to also financially contribute to students’ studies. To be considered for need-based scholarships, students must show:
- A financial need
- A seriousness of purpose and motivation
- Consistent attendance and progress
- Family gross annual income must not exceed $98,000
The application for Need-Based Scholarship Awards will remain open, and applications will be reviewed as funds become available. Applicants will only be contacted regarding their application if and when it is opened for review.
Herbert Zipper Scholarship
The Herbert Zipper Scholars program offers highly motivated, deserving students the opportunity to engage in comprehensive music education at Colburn, one of the nation’s premier arts organizations. Herbert Zipper Scholars receive instruction in music theory, private lessons, and ensemble participation, among many other academic and performance opportunities.
Please note that all supplemental application materials must be submitted along with the application. This includes a video audition, the applicant’s most recent report card, a letter of recommendation, and a short essay.
Herbert Zipper Scholarship recipients do not need to reapply each year. Awardees maintain their scholarship until graduation from high school as long as all requirements are being maintained.
Eligibility
- Student must be 8–17 years old.
- Student must be currently enrolled at an academic institution or home-schooled.
- Student must have at least two years of experience on student’s choice of instrument in the form of private applied study or experience in an ensemble.
- Student must possess a high level of interest and commitment to musical study.
- Family gross annual income must not exceed $98,000
Merit-Based Scholarship Awards
Merit-based scholarships are awarded annually to pre-college-aged students in recognition of exceptional performance and progress. These awards are available for participation in large ensembles, Fiddles on Fire, and the Honors Chamber Music program, with recipients selected through auditions and evaluations.
Limited merit scholarships are also available for select instruments in our Band and Advanced Orchestra, and Voice programs.