Scholarships
The Hickory Music Factory offers a limited number of scholarships to students each year. Applicants are assessed through written applications by the HMF board of directors. Funding for scholarships are made possible through private donations that help provide lessons and programs to youth in the community who may not have the means to do so.
Current scholarships run from July 1 - September 30
4th Quarter scholarship applications will be due on September 9th and will be active from Oct 1 -Dec 30, 2024.
Mark Weaver Scholarship
(Lessons & Camps)
The Mark Weaver Scholarship Fund for youth. Created by Dede Weaver and the Ballenger Family, the Mark Weaver Scholarship was designed to support youth in the community for private lessons and camps at the Hickory Music Factory. Mark was an influential music contributor and gifted performer and teacher. He was not only a celebrated drummer in the community but also a mentor to other musicians and a true believer in the positive impact music makes in people's lives.
Rita White Scholarship Fund
The Rita White Scholarship Fund was created to provide instruments to youth in the community to help further their musical education.
Rita White started playing piano in grade school and would eventually receive a Bachelor’s degree in music from UNCG in 1964. She played piano in the musical “Pajama Game” for the United States Armed Forces for the USO Tour in the early 60’s, and would later play piano in the music program at First Baptist Church in Asheboro, NC for 30 years. Rita taught private lessons for over 40 years, and has performed several concerts in the Asheboro/Concord area with organist accompanist. Because of her love of music, Rita continues to substitute for piano and organ at her church.
Betty Cline Scholarship For Foster Kids
(Lessons & Programs)
Betty Cline Scholarship Fund for Foster Kids. In memory of Betty Cline, mother of Rick Cline, this scholarship is to fund lessons & programs to youth in the foster community. Betty was known for her giving nature, her kindness to everyone she met and for her youthful spirit.
Steven Parker Gullett Scholarship
(Ensembles & Classes)
Steven Parker Gullett Scholarship for youth. In Memory of Steven Parker Gullett, this scholarship provides funds for HMF ensembles & classes. Students that would like to participate but need financial assistance are welcome to apply.
Steven Parker Gullett was a good samaritan, a man dedicated to family and friends, an athlete, and an accomplished musician. Steve coached many of the community youth in basketball, baseball, and soccer. He also inspired them to pursue their dreams in music. In addition to the saxophone, Steve played the guitar, piano harmonica and wrote music. Steve welcomed the opportunity to share his love of music with others. Whether it be with an accomplished musician or patiently encouraging others to achieve their potential. Through his music he celebrated with others in times of joy, and consoled in times of sorrow. Steve touched countless lives throughout his life, through his love of music, as a team member, as a coach, as a neighbor and as a friend.
Tony Eltora’s Rock Camp Scholarship
In 2007, Tony dreamed of creating an opportunity for young people to experience what it’s like to be in a band. In 2008, after receiving a United Arts Council grant for instruments, the first Tony Eltora Rock Camp was held at the Salt Block. The program then relocated to the Mauney Music Building at LRU for another 4 years. It was in this time period that the Hickory Music Factory was coming to life!
The HMF Rock Camp has inspired hundreds of teens to take their craft beyond the walls of the Hickory Music Factory and onto stages all over the world to develop and share their hard work. The Tony Eltora Rock Camp Fund will provide annual scholarships and assist with operating costs to keep this important program healthy for aspiring teen rockers. In an effort to commemorate Tony’s service and innovation, Tavia and Alex Bernhardt Jr. have generously initiated the fund and the first Tony Eltora Rock Camp scholarships will be awarded in June of this year.