The Intermezzo Fund scholarships are meant to help offset the “hidden costs” of pursuing music. Examples of eligible costs include, but are not limited to: 

• travel for lessons, competitions, auditions, etc,
• sheet music,
• private lessons 
• Violin/viola/cello/bass/guitar strings 
• Mouthpieces 
• Bluetooth pedal 
• Instrument repair/maintenance (i.e. bow rehairs, getting pads replaced, etc.)
• Rosin 
• Reeds
• Accompanist Fees 
• Application Fees (Youth Orchestra, Festival, Competition, Institute, College [music], etc.) 
• Headshots
• Concert clothes
• Recording equipment

We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and a household income doesn’t always describe the full picture. When we ask you to demonstrate a need for financial assistance, we’re looking for responses that explain your family’s income situation, including details like your household expenses, your family’s financial priorities, limitations in paying for your education, etc. Please only share what you are comfortable sharing.

Yes, you can!

Yes, someone may help guide you through the process, but we’d like your answers to be written by you, the student!

A letter of recommendation is typically written by a teacher, mentor, coach, or other trusted adult, and should not be written by parents or guardians. The most effective recommendation will come from someone who knows you well and can speak to your character on a personal level. Make a list of several people whom you could ask!

You will want to ask for a letter in advance. Generally, asking for a letter at least two weeks in advance will give your recommender enough time to write one for you!

We’ve created an email template that you can use when reaching out to your recommenders. You may also ask for a letter in-person, but you will want to send an email to provide them with all of the necessary information, like background about the scholarship and why you think you’re qualified.

For more help, click on the “Resources” tab above.

Your recommender should fill out our form by the due date of your scholarship application.

Yes! Just list each item with each specific cost and the total amount in the “Funding Request” section of the application. IMF doesn’t award more than $250 at a time.

The Intermezzo Fund awards grants up to $250.

Yes, you may, but we’d prefer your request to be for a specific item or service, like getting your instrument repaired, a recording camera, sheet music, etc. Eligible costs are found above.

We don’t intend for the application to take much longer than an hour.

The review committee looks for two main things: the level of financial need and the level of impact your request would make on your musical journey. The review committee does not consider as heavily the quality of video, grammar, playing level, etc., when reviewing the applications. 

You should receive the money (a check) up to 14 business days after submitting the Supplier Form through the University of Michigan.

Yes! If you’d like feedback, just email us at intermezzofund@gmail.com.