Zaida Carpenter Receives WAMI SEED Scholarship

Originally posted on Facebook:

 

Last spring, Zaida Carpenter received a WAMI SEED Scholarship, and today, she’s one of the great success stories in the short history of this program. The video below was taken when she first received her scholarship—before she embarked on an incredible musical journey.

Zaida’s passion for music led her to study the organ, and with the help of the SEED Scholarship, she was able to continue her lessons at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It was through these lessons that she learned about a prestigious organ-building apprenticeship at St. John’s University in Minnesota—an opportunity given to only one new apprentice each year. She applied, was accepted, and is now immersed in a 3.5-year program learning every aspect of organ building, from casting metal pipes to crafting keys and pedal boards.

But her story doesn’t stop there. Zaida has also become a teacher, passing on her knowledge to young piano and organ students. Thanks to her guidance, two of her students—just 11 and 12 years old—are already playing church services, and her piano students recently performed in a recital alongside her former teacher.

Zaida’s journey is exactly why we started the SEED Scholarship—to help young musicians access the lessons and resources that can open doors to a future they never imagined.

🎵 Applications for the Spring 2025 SEED Scholarship are now open at WAMI.org/seed-scholarship. If you know a young musician in grades 7–12 who could use financial help with lessons, instrument rentals, or camp fees, encourage them to apply!

🎵 This program is 100% funded by donations. If you’d like to help support the next generation of Wisconsin musicians, please visit our website!

Zaida’s success is just the beginning. Let’s keep building the future of Wisconsin music together! 🎶✨

SEEDs of Change: An Update on WAMI's Scholarship Program

SEEDs of Change: An Update on WAMI’s Scholarship Program

Hey music lovers! It’s your fellow behind the scenes WAMI board member here, checking in with an update on our awesome SEED Scholarship program. Last night during a virtual meeting, Scholarship Committee Chair Chris Carpenter gave an update on a youth program that’s become near and dear to the organization’s heart.

For those of you who haven’t heard, two years ago we launched the SEED (Sowing Excellence, Enriching Dreams) Scholarship to support the next generation of Wisconsin musicians. We believe that music education is vital, and we’re committed to helping young people access the resources they need to pursue their musical passions.

Why SEED Matters

Think back to your own life – how did music impact you? Maybe it boosted your confidence, sparked your creativity, or helped you connect with others. Music education has been shown to have incredible benefits, from improving academic achievement to fostering discipline and resilience.

With SEED, we’re providing financial assistance to middle and high school students across Wisconsin. This funding can be used for private lessons, new instruments, or participation in music programs. Basically, we’re helping break down the barriers that prevent kids from accessing quality music education.

Where We’re At

Our goal for this year is to raise $15,000 for the SEED Scholarship. Thanks to the generosity of music lovers like you, we’ve already raised $3,901! But we still have a ways to go to reach our target. Every dollar makes a difference, so please consider donating if you can.

The application deadline for this round has passed, and we’re currently in the exciting stage of reviewing applications. We received so many inspiring submissions from talented young musicians across the state. It’s truly humbling to see the passion and dedication of these future stars.

Shout-out to the Dream Team

I want to give a huge shout-out to my fellow board members Chris Carpenter, Phil Norby, and Gil Southwell. These guys have poured their hearts and souls into making SEED a success. From developing the program guidelines to spreading the word and fundraising, their hard work and dedication are truly inspiring.

Stay Tuned!

Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates and testimonials from the recipients of the last round of SEED scholarships. You’ll be amazed by their stories and the impact that music has had on their lives.

Let’s continue to work together to nurture the next generation of Wisconsin musicians. With your support, we can make a real difference in the lives of these talented young people.

WAMI SEED Scholarship

WAMI Announces SEED Scholarship

WAMI SEED Scholarship

WAMI provides SEED (sowing excellence, enriching dreams) Scholarships through the WAMICares program, providing support for the next generation of musicians.

A Message from WAMI President, Jason Klagstad

I’m excited to introduce the WAMI SEED Scholarship! The most important part of WAMI’s mission is to foster and support the next generation of musicians. 

As a community, we know the impact of music on learning, self expression, well-being and belonging.

Middle and high school are a critical time for young musicians. Music can be left by the wayside for several reasons; lack of robust programs, lack of recognition for its worth, other activities and economic challenges.

As professional musicians, it is on all of us to do what we can to encourage young musicians in their studies. This is where the WAMI SEED Scholarship comes in, to sow excellence and enrich dreams for young musicians.

As an organization, WAMI’s volunteer board of directors has been singularly focused on raising funds and developing the SEED scholarship.

Now, we’re rolling it out to you. We ask that you share this news with young musicians in your life.”

WAMI SEED Scholarship Details

  • Is for middle and high school students in Wisconsin
  • Can be used for instrument rentals, lessons, camps or other study enrichments
  • Each scholarship is $250
  • 3 scholarships will be awarded in each WAMI region (12 in total)
  • 8 additional scholarships will be awarded at large in Wisconsin, determined on merit
  • Furthermore, WAMI is proud to reserve four ‘Impact Awards’ to promote diversity within the music community by honoring the children of veterans and children in under-represented communities

How to Apply for the WAMI SEED Scholarship

Share the WAMI Seed Scholarship

  • Your students
  • Your school
  • Your friends

Grow the WAMI Seed Scholarship

As a community, we can grow the WAMI SEED Scholarship!
We will welcome contributions of any amount from:

  • Individuals
  • Business Owners
  • Civic Organiztions
  • Service Clubs
  • Mutual Aid Groups

To Support the WAMI SEED Scholarship