Adrienne Pucky Musician's Scholarship

Funded by
$500
1 winner$500
Awarded
Application Deadline
Apr 23, 2025
Winners Announced
May 23, 2025
Education Level
High School
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school senior
State:
Virginia
Field of Study:
Music

Ms. Adrienne Pucky is an incredible orchestra teacher who inspires her students in a way that is rare.

Her classroom is more like a family than anything else and is a great space for students to foster their skills and develop a passion for music. Unfortunately, many students don’t have such a supportive environment in which to learn, especially when it comes to creative subjects such as music. As a result, few students pursue higher education in these fields. 

This scholarship seeks to honor the impact of Adrienne Pucky by encouraging students to pursue their passions in music.

Any high school senior in Virginia who plans to study music in college may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

To apply, write a short essay telling us about what music means to you.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published October 10, 2024
Essay Topic

What does music mean to you?

400–600 words

Winners and Finalists

Winning Application

Colt Armstrong
Falls Church High SchoolFalls Church, VA
I began singing when I was just around 10 months old. According to my mother and my babysitter, my melodic tendencies began with a tune as simple as the ABC's. From then on, my love for music and singing blossomed. I was singing before I could talk; I've generally always found that communication was easier for me when through melody. I fell in love with music as soon as I was able to understand what it was. Every time I sing, I'm presented with a euphoria like no other. It's not even just an escape for me; it's half of who I am. Every portamento, glissando, and melisma that I sing leads me to a space of mind that I pray I never have to leave. It's surreal having such a strong sense of love for an elite form of art, and I sometimes find myself pondering what I did to deserve the unbelievably fortunate blessing of enhanced musical interest. Being able to share my love for singing and music with others is truly the greatest gift. To be surrounded by individuals who share an equal level of love for singing, is an even greater gift. When I was in 10th grade, I was accepted into the ACDA National Honors Choir, an achievement that remains one of my greatest musical accomplishments to this day. Walking into that rehearsal space felt like stepping into a world I’d always dreamed of. The level of musicianship was beyond anything I had ever experienced. Each voice blended into a crystal-clear harmony, a sound so pure it still resonates with me years later. Being in that choir felt like finding a true home - a place where I belonged without question. I was surrounded by individuals whose passion for music mirrored my own, and I found myself never wanting to leave. It was a place where the language of music flowed effortlessly, where every note felt like an expression far deeper than words. It was in those moments, singing alongside the most talented musicians I had ever encountered, that I realized this was truly where I was meant to be. Looking back, these experiences didn’t just make me a better singer - they made me a stronger person. Music has always been the most authentic way for me to express myself, and through each of these milestones, my love for it only deepened. I don’t know who I’d be without music, because it has shaped me in every way imaginable. It has given me a voice, a community, and a sense of purpose. Every step I’ve taken in my musical journey has reinforced that this is what I was born to do. I’m constantly inspired by the ability of music to connect people, to transcend language and bring clarity to emotions that words cannot.Without music, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. It has woven itself into the very fabric of my being, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 23, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 23, 2025.