Call for applications: Hugh Masekela scholarships at Manhattan School of Music

The scholarship is in honour of the late South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela, who died in early 2018. Masekela studied classical trumpet at the MSM from 1960 to 1964.

The scholarship is intended for six South Africans who want to pursue bachelor of music degrees at the MSM. It will cover tuition and all living expenses for all recipients for the full four years of study.

Interested individuals can apply here. Applications will be accepted from 1 September and the deadline is 1 December.

“A principal goal of this new endeavour is to ensure that the Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholarship be awarded to South African students who have faced significant social, educational, cultural, or economic challenges, and who have a demonstrated interest in the advancement of music consistent with Mr Masekela’s legacy and vision,” reads a joint statement from the three institutions.

MSM president James Gandre said he was excited about the scholarship. “We are enormously grateful for this scholarship grant and deeply honoured to be working with the ELMA Music Foundation and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation to provide an educational and musical home to six South African students whose presence at the school will stand as testament to Hugh Masekela’s vision and talent.

“He is one of MSM’s most distinguished alumni, and this is an apt extension of both his musical legacy and the important work that he did during his lifetime on social initiatives benefiting South Africans. The Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholars will be warmly welcomed to a vibrant community of aspiring young musicians who come to the school from 45 countries around the world.”

ELMA philanthropies director of music programmes Tarik Ward said: “We are especially thrilled to honour the legacy and work of this renowned musician and freedom fighter by establishing with Manhattan School of Music and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation an important new scholarship in his name.

“This scholarship not only honours the great artist’s legacy but also nurtures the next generation of South African musicians and upholds his vision to preserve and promote African heritage, culture, and identity.”

Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation chairperson Prof Louis Molamu said: “It is with gratitude and appreciation that we at the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation enter into this partnership with the ELMA Music Foundation and the Manhattan School of Music.

“We look forward to forging ahead into an exciting musical scholarship reflective of Hugh Masekela’s extensive, voracious and prodigious musical appetites and his passion for intergenerational creative collaboration.

The Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholarship was announced on 4 April to mark the great jazzman's 80th birthday.

For more information, visit the Manhattan School of Music official website.