Sony Music Group will offer financial and other support to students studying music and music business-related fields via a new program announced Tuesday. Funding for the program is being provided by Sony’s $100 million social justice fund, unveiled by the company in June 2020.
The Sony Music Group Global Scholars Program will provide scholarships to up to 50 students from diverse backgrounds who are enrolled at accredited colleges and universities across the globe. Students accepted into the program will receive annual financial support for the period of the degree program or upon completion, whichever is sooner, depending on a student’s financial need and the region where they’re based. For students in countries where colleges and universities are publicly funded or subsidized, applicants can apply for funding to assist with mandatory costs including books, equipment and university service costs.
The program will also offer enrichment programs for participating students, including advanced instruction and support for university assignments as well as structured events and webinars designed to connect students with Sony Music and industry experts – all with the goal of supporting future music industry professionals.
Sony Music is partnering on the program with The Institute of International Education (IIE), a non-profit that will administer the international application portal and provide a range of management and evaluation services.
Eligible candidates must be planning to enroll full-time in an accredited college or university degree program in music or music business-related fields during the 2022-2023 academic year. Those interested can apply and find additional information here.
“We look forward to awarding these scholarships to an incredible group of recipients that have excelled academically and exude a passion for music,” said Towalame Austin, executive vp of philanthropy and social impact at Sony Music Group. “Through the power of education, this signature program will provide opportunities for the music industry’s next generation of global leaders to bring diverse perspectives to corporations, artists, songwriters and composers.”
Added IIE senior vp Jonah Kokodyniak, “We are honored to be working with Sony Music Group on this incredible new scholarship program – the only one of its kind in the world to focus on creating access to education and careers in music. We look forward to collaborating with SMG to build a diverse, global cohort full of talented young people in the industry and applaud Sony for its landmark investment in creating a more diverse, equitable future.”
