If you’re a music student in Washington state with a passion for your instrument, voice, or composition—and you’re serious about pursuing excellence—you absolutely should not miss the Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship 2026. This unique opportunity isn’t just about financial aid; it’s a recognition of dedication, talent, and the kind of heartfelt commitment that turns practice rooms into performance halls and dreams into reality. Whether you’re 14 and just picked up your first saxophone or a high school senior preparing for a conservatory audition, this scholarship could be the boost you need.
Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Amount | $4,000 (one-time award) |
| Eligibility | Music students in Washington State (grades 9–12 or recent high school graduates) |
| Deadline | January 31, 2026 (applications typically open December 1, 2025) |
| Administered By | Washington State Fair Foundation |
| Selection Criteria | Musical excellence, dedication, growth, and potential |
| Application Includes | Video performance, personal statement, teacher recommendation |
I’ve mentored dozens of young musicians over the years, and one thing I always tell them is: talent opens doors, but persistence walks you through them. Scholarships like the Hojem Music Scholarship aren’t just awarded for raw skill—they honor consistency, growth, and the courage to keep playing even when no one’s watching. And with rising costs for private lessons, instruments, summer programs, and college tuition, a $4,000 award can make a real difference.
Why This Scholarship Matters
In today’s world, music education is more valuable—and more vulnerable—than ever. According to the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), students involved in music score an average of 31 points higher in reading and 23 points higher in math on standardized tests. Yet, funding for school music programs remains inconsistent, especially in rural or under-resourced districts. That’s where private scholarships step in.
The Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship was established to honor a couple who believed deeply in the transformative power of music. Kent, a longtime music educator and band director, and Carolyn, a dedicated supporter of the arts, wanted to ensure that financial barriers wouldn’t silence a gifted student’s potential. Their legacy lives on through this annual award.
Unlike many scholarships that require perfect GPAs or extensive extracurricular lists, the Hojem Scholarship focuses squarely on musical dedication—a refreshing approach that levels the playing field for passionate students from all backgrounds.
Who Is Eligible? (And Who Isn’t?)
Let’s clear up the most common confusion right away.
You ARE eligible if you:
- Are a current resident of Washington State.
- Are in grades 9–12 during the 2025–2026 school year or graduated in 2025 and haven’t started college yet.
- Study any musical discipline: voice, piano, strings, band instruments, composition, jazz, classical, folk—you name it.
- Can demonstrate consistent effort, improvement, and passion for music (even if you’re not “the best” in your school).
You are NOT eligible if:
- You live outside Washington State (even if you attend a WA school virtually).
- You’ve already started college or a post-secondary program as of January 2026.
- You cannot submit a video performance or secure a recommendation from a music teacher or private instructor.
Applying for the 2026 Hojem Scholarship
Applying might feel intimidating, but it’s simpler than you think. Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Mark Your Calendar
- December 1, 2025: Application portal opens at FairFoundation.com
- January 31, 2026: FIRM DEADLINE (no late submissions accepted)
Step 2: Prepare Your Video Performance
- Length: 3–5 minutes
- Content: One or two contrasting pieces that showcase your range (e.g., a lyrical piece and a technical one).
- Quality: Good audio matters more than fancy video. Use a phone on a tripod in a quiet room.
- No editing or enhancements—they want to hear you, not studio magic.
Step 3: Write a Short Personal Statement
Answer these questions honestly:
- Why do you love music?
- How has music shaped your life?
- What are your musical goals for the next 3–5 years?
- How would this scholarship help you?
Step 4: Secure a Recommendation Letter
Ask a music teacher, private instructor, or ensemble director who knows your work ethic. Give them at least two weeks to write it—and send them the scholarship description so they understand what the judges value.
Step 5: Submit Everything Online
Double-check:
- Video is uploaded and plays correctly.
- Essay is proofread (ask a parent or friend to read it!).
- Recommendation is submitted by your teacher, not you.
What Makes a Winning Application?
Having reviewed dozens of youth scholarship applications, I can tell you this: judges notice authenticity.
One standout 2024 applicant wrote about how she taught herself piano using YouTube after her school cut its music program. She included a grainy video of her playing in her kitchen—but her phrasing, dynamics, and emotional intent were undeniable. She won.
Winning traits include:
- Growth mindset: Show how you’ve improved over time.
- Consistency: Mention how many hours you practice weekly.
- Community involvement: Do you play at nursing homes? Lead a section in band? Share that!
- Clear goals: “I want to major in music education to teach in underserved schools” shows purpose.
Remember: this isn’t a talent contest. It’s a dedication contest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even strong musicians get tripped up by avoidable errors:
- Submitting a video with background noise (TV, barking dogs, echoey rooms).
- Reusing a competition video with applause or judges’ comments (they want a clean, solo performance).
- Writing a generic essay like “Music is great” without personal stories.
- Missing the deadline by hours—the system shuts down automatically.
Beyond the Scholarship: Why This Opportunity Opens Doors
Winning the Hojem Scholarship does more than fund lessons or buy reeds. It:
- Boosts your resume for college auditions and other scholarships.
- Validates your hard work during tough practice days.
- Connects you to a legacy of music advocates in Washington.
Even if you don’t win, the process—recording yourself, reflecting on your journey, articulating your goals—builds skills that will serve you for life.
FAQs about Kent and Carolyn Hojem Music Scholarship 2026
Q: Can I apply if I’m homeschooled?
A: Yes! As long as you’re a Washington resident and meet the grade/age requirements, homeschoolers are welcome.
Q: Do I need to plan to major in music in college?
A: No. The scholarship supports your current musical development, regardless of future plans.
Q: Can I submit a group performance?
A: No. The video must feature only you as the primary performer.
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: No. The Hojem Music Scholarship is completely free to apply for.
Q: When will winners be announced?
A: Typically by late April 2026. Winners are notified by email and listed on the Fair Foundation website.
