The field of performing arts is a highly competitive one, requiring creativity, endurance, patience, self-confidence, and passion to succeed. This article will discuss the different types of performing arts degrees available and the scholarships available to help make dreams come true. When it comes to performing arts degrees, students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program. The BA program focuses on studying individual performing arts from a liberal arts perspective, while BFA programs are designed to train candidates to be professional dancers, painters, actors, and musicians.
Although the recent economic recession has had a negative impact on the amount of funding available for the performing arts, there are still some scholarships available that can help aspiring performers achieve their goals. The Earl James Fahringer Art Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for students who want to specialize in music, art, theater, or dance. Arts for Life is a non-profit organization that offers scholarships to students interested in different types of art. The Department of Performing Arts awards several music, theater, and dance scholarships to incoming students each year.
Auditions or portfolios may be required for some scholarships. The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs offers an Iowa Scholarship for the Arts to all final year students attending high schools in Iowa. The NSHSS has created a scholarship dedicated to those interested in continuing their studies in the performing arts. Since 2000, the Curtis Mayfield Performing Arts Scholarship has been committed to supporting black students in the performing arts and honoring Curtis Mayfield's legacy. The Miranda Scholarship is sponsored by Rhode Island College to help provide financial assistance to first-generation college students who specialize in the performing arts. At the chosen university, there may be a general arts scholarship fund for students studying visual arts or performing arts or there may be specific scholarships for students who specialize or participate only in the performing arts. Students participating in the performing arts may also consider applying for general scholarships open to all students or scholarships for students from certain demographic groups.
Although competition is fierce and pay is often low in these overcrowded fields, with talent, perseverance and passion (plus a little bit of luck) you could be the next Isadora Duncan or Pavarotti. Performing arts scholarships are an invaluable source of financial aid for students who want to pursue their artistic interests. Explore the links below to learn more about performing arts scholarships and make your dreams come true.
