Montrell Williams

Peace and Blessings, First I want to thank Mr. Turner and all of the staff associated with him and this great organization. I indeed count it a privilege and honor to receive this prestigious scholarship. I am an avid lover of all music and the power and positivity it brings to everyone, which is exactly what I plan to continue doing from this moment and moments to come. Being an inspiration to others while using these gifts and talents mean everything to me and I am a firm believer that this scholarship will help me out tremendously in all future endeavors. God Bless, and thank you all so very much!

Kene Obiaya

Hello, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for being chosen as a recipient of the Richard Turner Jr. Musical Gifts Scholarship. I feel both honored and excited to be recognized in this way, and I’m glad to have learned about Richard Turner Jr. through this scholarship. Your support means so much to me as I continue my journey in music at Oberlin College and Conservatory. This scholarship eases the financial demands of my education, allowing me to pour more energy into refining my skills as a pianist and violist, while also exploring the business side of the music industry. Being able to focus more on my studies and less on financial concerns is a gift that I deeply appreciate. As someone who has always found joy in making music — from improvising on a toy piano as a child to now pursuing piano performance at the collegiate level — I aspire to break down barriers and make classical music accessible to wider audiences. Your generosity affirms my path and motivates me to build a career that brings the joy of music to all. I'm inspired by your mission to help aspiring musicians like myself create a lasting impact in the music world. Thank you for investing in my future and for honoring Richard Turner Jr.’s legacy in such a meaningful way. Your support encourages me to keep working hard and to give back to others through music. Thank you. Kene Obiaya

Zaire Franklin

Dear Richard Turner, Jr. Musical Gifts, Inc., I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for choosing me as a recipient of the Richard Turner Jr. Musical Gifts Scholarship. It’s a tremendous honor to be recognized in this way, and I'm truly excited to begin my journey at the USC Thornton School of Music as a Jazz Studies major. Your support means so much as I embark on this new chapter. Having this scholarship eases the financial burden that comes with attending university, allowing me to dedicate my energy to honing my craft and growing as a musician. Knowing that someone believes in my potential and shares my passion for music inspires me to keep pushing forward. As a self-taught, left-handed jazz guitarist, I've always been driven by a desire to share the transformative power of jazz and encourage others—especially young African American artists—to embrace the art form and their individuality. With your help, I can continue to create music that connects, uplifts, and preserves jazz’s rich cultural heritage. I’m honored to carry on Richard Turner, Jr.'s legacy through this scholarship and hope to contribute to the community in meaningful ways. I deeply admire your commitment to supporting musicians who strive not just for technical excellence but for artistic longevity and impact. Your generosity lays the groundwork for artists like me to grow and inspire the next generation. Thank you for believing in my dreams and for all you do to nurture young musicians. I look forward to making you proud and giving back to the music community in the future. Thank you, Zaire Franklin