Take part in the 2027 ITF Youth Workshop
The scholarship is intended to support talented young trombonists in their musical development. Are you a dedicated young trombone player interested in learning, performing, and meeting other musicians from around the world?
The ITA Ray and Vera Conniff Endowment Scholarship helps talented trombone players aged 12–17 attend the International Trombone Festival Youth Workshop. The scholarship is funded by the ITA Ray and Vera Conniff Endowment Fund and administered by the International Trombone Association (ITA).
Apply: https://www.trombone.net/ita-ray-vera-conniff-scholarship-application
What is the ITF Youth Workshop?
The International Trombone Festival Youth Workshop is a four-day, fully chaperoned experience designed specifically for young trombonists ages 12–17. Participants experience the International Trombone Festival as a group while taking part in exclusive clinics, group warm-ups, ensemble rehearsals, performances, and other festival events. Students are placed in ensembles according to ability level and work together throughout the workshop, culminating in a Youth Workshop performance. Students may stay on campus with the workshop group and counselors or commute each day. The program offers young musicians an exciting opportunity to develop their playing, meet other trombonists their age, and experience the international trombone community in a supportive and engaging environment. Please note: Because of the workshop’s collaborative format, participants must attend all four days (July 7–10, 2027). Partial attendance is not permitted.
What does the scholarship provide?
Scholarship recipients receive:
- Free participation in the ITF Youth Workshop at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA, July 7-10, 2027
- Financial support toward travel and lodging expenses
Travel and lodging expenses are reimbursed based on documented costs, up to the amount awarded. The available stipend is determined in January each year. Depending on available funding and the applications received, one or more scholarships may be awarded.
Who can apply?
You may apply if you:
- Are between 12 and 17 years old at the time of application.
- Demonstrate commitment and potential as a trombone player
- Are available to attend the 2027 ITF Youth Workshop at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA, July 7-10, 2027
- Submit all required application materials by the deadline
Scholarship applicants do not need to register separately for the ITF Youth Workshop. If you receive and accept a scholarship application it also serves as your application to participate in the Youth Workshop. ITA will in that case arrange your Youth Workshop registration.
If you are not awarded a scholarship but would still like to attend the Youth Workshop, you will need to register separately through www.internationaltrombonefestival.com, subject to availability and the applicable registration deadline.
What do I need to submit?
You must submit the application materials required for the 2027 ITF Youth Workshop, together with the following additional materials:
1. A short solo video
Submit a link to a video recording of yourself performing a solo of your choice.
- Maximum length: two minutes
- You may choose any repertoire
- Two contrasting musical styles are preferred, but not required
2. A personal statement
Write a personal statement of no more than 500 words. Tell us about:
- Your musical background
- Why you would like to participate in the ITF Youth Workshop
- Your long-term goals as a musician
We want to learn about you, your interest in the trombone, and what attending the workshop could mean for your musical development.
How will applications be evaluated?
Applications are reviewed as a whole. The selection committee will consider:
- The quality and promise shown in your recording
- Your interest in attending the Youth Workshop
- The educational benefit you are likely to gain from participating
The committee may also consider financial need, geographic diversity, and other factors connected to the purpose of the scholarship.
The selection committee consists of representatives from the ITF Youth Workshop, the ITF Standing Committee, and the ITA Executive Board.
Important dates for the 2027 scholarship
- Applications open: October 2026
- Application deadline: January 15, 2027
- Application review: January 16–February 10, 2027
- Successful applicants notified: February 15–20, 2027
- Public announcement: March 1, 2027
Successful applicants will be contacted privately and will have 14 days to accept the scholarship.
How to apply
Complete the online application form and submit all required materials by January 15, 2027:
https://www.trombone.net/ita-ray-vera-conniff-scholarship-application
Please make sure your application is complete. Applications received after the deadline or missing required materials may not be considered
Questions?
Let us know at info [at] trombone [dot] net
Acknowledgment
The International Trombone Association is deeply grateful to the Ray and Vera Conniff Foundation for making this opportunity possible and for supporting the next generation of trombonists.
From his beginnings as a trombonist/arranger during the heyday of swing working with Bunny Berigan, Bob Crosby and Artie Shaw to his acclaim as the leader of his own band, Grammy winner Ray Conniff is among the few musicians to have had a successful career that spanned 65 years. He has recorded over 100 studio albums, selling over 70 million albums. He created the “Ray Conniff Sound” by being the first to use voices to double as instruments on his recordings. He also was the first to stage a live concert using three-channel stereo feeds. Best known for his work as The Ray Conniff Orchestra and Singers, Conniff was one of the few commercially successful musical icons. His legacy continues through the Ray and Vera Conniff Foundation, which supports music and education globally.
Learn more about The Conniff Story
For questions, please contact the International Trombone Association at info [at] trombone [dot] net.
