FOCUS ON FOUNDATION FUND HOLDERS

The Steinway Piano Society Fund of Southwest Florida is dedicated to the advancement of young pianists. Its mission is to stimulate and nourish the musical talent of young people and to enhance the arts in our community.

The society hosts an annual scholarship competition for piano students between the ages of 6 and 18. Last year more than $11,000 was awarded to the winners; a renewable scholarship was also awarded to a Florida Gulf Coast University piano performance major.

Through its Piano Bank, the Steinway Piano Society supports young pianists in their journey to enhance their musical skills and enjoyment. This program provides aid for students who need financial support to continue their musical education. Qualified students receive funding for lessons, the loan of a piano or both.

The society works closely with the Community Foundation of Collier County to administer the Piano Bank Fund. The foundation receives and reviews applications from students, and then through committee deliberation decides which applicants are eligible for scholarships. The foundation then notifies the Steinway Piano Society to make a recommendation to award lessons, a piano or both to the selected students. The Community Foundation also handles the monthly correspondence and payments to the piano teachers that work with the Piano Bank recipients.

For more information about the Steinway Piano Society or the Piano Bank, call Jennifer Fey at 498-9884 or go to www.steinwaypianogallery.net