The Bermuda Philharmonic Society is delighted to announce its 2019 bursary and scholarship recipients.

The Bermuda Philharmonic is a registered charity (#323) created in 1993 to maintain and operate a symphony orchestra in Bermuda to foster an interest in and enjoyment of music, through performance and support of music education.

Dorcas Roberts, President of the Bermuda Philharmonic said, “This year we have awarded $9,000 in bursaries to 13 young Bermudian musicians to help them continue in their music studies. We are also extremely fortunate to have been able to award $3,000 in two scholarships to violinists Leslie Tucker (photo included) and Sophie-Marie Brackstone (photo included) for outstanding skill, achievement and obvious passion; both of whom are continuing their study of music at a tertiary level and are undoubtedly, the future of Bermuda music.”

The Bermuda Philharmonic’s education grants for young musicians are raised primarily through its performances.

“Learning music helps all aspects of educational development but learning an instrument takes a long time and is expensive,” Mrs. Roberts said. “Our aim is to champion young musicians and

make learning music accessible to all, regardless of background or income, and to support the

next generation of Bermudian musicians. The skills, enjoyment and friendships gained through the process are invaluable. In addition, our concerts provide young musicians professional orchestral performance opportunities. A symphony orchestra is the pinnacle of ensembles and students benefit hugely from the apprenticeship, experience and enjoyment the orchestra provides.”

The next bursary and scholarship application period will be in April and May 2020, with auditions held in late June. Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/bermudaphiharmonic) and Instagram (bermuda.philharmonic) for more details, or email philharmonicbda@gmail.com.

• Press release from the Bermuda Philharmonic Society