California Bluegrass Association Scholarship Fund

Can we count on you to support a good cause?

Once a year the Mandolin Cafe selects a mandolin related program that can benefit from our collective community generosity.

This year we're supporting the California Bluegrass Association's first ever Winter Music Camp in support of a much needed scholarship fund that allows children under the ages of 18 whose parents cannot fund the full cost to attend with CBA's support.

But there's more. Camps like CBA's winter event not only provide valuable opportunities for tomorrow's talent, but they also help employ the artists we know and love. It's all good. For this first winter camp, the mandolin instructors will include:

Roland White - level 1
Dix Bruce - early bluegrass/oldtime, level 2
John Reischman - bluegrass, level 3

Our Money Where Our Mouth Is!

Our goal of raising $1,500 for the scholarship fun begins with a $300 donation from the Mandolin Cafe. Join us with your donation!

Tax Deductible Donations

Contributions to the California Bluegrass Association are tax-deductible due to their non-profit status, but contributions must be made directly to them by check to qualify.

Make check payable to: California Bluegrass Association CBA Winter Camp Scholarship Fund

Then mail your check to:

Ed Alston
CBA Treasurer
P.O. Box 6954
Santa Maria, CA 93456

Actual Applicant Letter

Dear Ingrid (Noyes) - CBA Scholarship Coordinator

My name is David, I'm 14 years old, and I love bluegrass. I've been playing music for nine years and playing bluegrass for three years. I started off playing the piano but my taste changed so I switched to playing mandolin. Most of the people I know that play music have to be told by their parents to practice, but I sit down and practice for fun and I do have lots of fun playing.

My first teacher was Chip Dunbar who got me started and taught me the basics. After he died I thought that no one could teach me better so I decided to write David Grisman a letter and ask him to give me a lesson. I knew that it was likely that he wouldn't respond, but one morning I woke up to hear that he was on the phone wanting to talk to me. My excitement was overwhelming! Later, I was fortunate enough to have a lesson with him. After, we asked how much we should pay him for the lesson and he said he would do it for free, for Chip. Now I have Ed Neff as a teacher, teaching me Bill Monroe's style of playing. I love bluegrass and I love the feeling of learning something that sounds great and sounds like something the professionals play.

Every day I enjoy listening to bluegrass. I love going to festivals and jamming with other musicians. I've been to Grass Valley Festival two times and I loved it. Last time I came up early and I couldn't help but notice the music camp happening--I really wanted to go because it looked really fun. This year I really want to go but my parents are in construction and with the difficulties right now they don't have any income and can't afford to pay for the camp. I feel that if I went to the camp I would learn a lot and have lots of fun. That's why I am asking if it is possible for me to get a scholarship. Please. I am dedicated enough that I am paying for lessons with my own money, and it would mean so much to me if I could get a scholarship. Thank you so much.

David in Sebastopol, California

-------------------

Questions about this scholarship program and fund raising? Contact us.