Leonard Bernstein Scholars Program
Offered by Brandeis University
About this scholarship
The Leonard Bernstein Scholars Program at Brandeis University is a highly selective undergraduate music cohort for accomplished instrumentalists and vocalists. Current official pages describe a renewable scholarship and substantial artistic benefits but do not state a dollar amount, so the older $96,000 directory figure is not carried into this record. Scholars receive free private lessons with Brandeis music faculty, professional chamber coaching, mentorship, distinctive ensemble and performance opportunities, and close engagement with other selected musicians. Applicants begin a Brandeis first-year application through the Common Application or Coalition Application. On the Brandeis supplement they indicate that they want Bernstein consideration and then submit a recorded audition through SlideRoom. Brandeis encourages two or three recordings, while instrument-specific guidance may require particular solo, chamber, stylistic, or language selections. Music faculty review the portfolios and select scholars with the admissions office; recipients are notified with their admission decision. Published submission dates are November 3 for Early Decision I and Early Action, January 15 for Early Decision II, and February 1 for Regular Decision. Brandeis does not attach a year to those recurring dates on the current program page, so no year-specific database date is invented. To retain program membership, scholars must participate satisfactorily in Bernstein ensembles and declare a music major or minor; scholarship renewal is also subject to Brandeis requirements.
Eligibility
- Apply to Brandeis University as a first-semester first-year student
- Indicate interest in the Leonard Bernstein Scholars Program on the Brandeis application supplement
- Be an accomplished instrumentalist or vocalist
- Submit the required recorded audition through SlideRoom by the applicable admission-round deadline
- Follow the published recording guidance for the applicant’s instrument or voice
- Declare a major or minor in music after enrolling
- Maintain satisfactory participation and performance in Leonard Bernstein Scholars Program ensembles
- Meet Brandeis scholarship renewal requirements for continued funding