VERO BEACH — The Vero Beach Choral Society recently awarded a $4,000 scholarship to a Vero Beach High trombone player as well as announced its Songs for the Soul Spring Concert April 8 beginning at 4 p.m. The concert will be held at Church of Vero Beach.
Research shows that music education is a powerful tool in attaining a child’s full potential, intellectually, socially and creatively. Brains of musically trained individuals exhibit stronger neural connections and more grey matter.
Vero Beach High School senior Lance Lunceford perfectly reflects such research and is the recipient of the 2018 Vero Beach Choral Society scholarship.
The Society’s founding Artistic Director Dr. Ray Adams started the scholarship program in 1997. To date, the program has awarded close to $100,000.
“Our scholarship program helps us accomplish our mission to enrich the community with music, education and inspiration,” said Rob Middleman, president of the Choral Society. “We are proud of the program and of our high caliber recipients.”
According to the Society’s website, “supporting the best of today’s young musicians ensures the survival of classical music.”
Of this year’s 12 outstanding applicants, Vero Beach High School Senior Lance Lunceford distinguished himself.
“Lance showed a maturity of musicianship and a sensitivity in his playing, not to mention a prodigious technical ability, that is remarkable to see in a young musician,” said Artistic Director Jason Hobratschk.
Lance says he has a “fervent love for the trombone.” Not something many high school seniors might say, but Lance has worked hard for and is proud of his musical accomplishments. Lance currently serves as Principal Trombonist for three different ensembles and is a two time winner of the VBHS Concerto Competition.
He serves as Executive Officer of the VBHS Fighting Indians Band. Lance will be performing a trombone solo at the Society’s upcoming spring concert on Sunday, April 8, at 4 p.m.
The concert, entitled Songs for the Soul will feature the Solemn Vespers by Mozart and the folk song cycle, The Sprig of Thyme by John Rutter.
It is generously sponsored by BNY Mellon Wealth Management.
Tickets may be purchased at verobeachschoralsociety.org or by calling 772-494-5011. Tickets are also available at the Cultural Council’s office at 2041 14th Ave in Vero Beach, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Vero Beach Choral Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Scholarship funding is accomplished via concert ticket sales, paid advertising and donations. Donations may be made through the Society’s website, or sent to Vero Beach Choral Society, Inc. P.O. Box 7, Vero Beach, FL 32961.
