For the past eight years, KHS America has provided the wind and percussion instruments for the members of the United States Army All American Marching Band under the brands of Jupiter, Mapex, and Majestic. Made up of 101 high school seniors from around the country, members of the band who wish to pursue a career in music education can apply for a $1,000 College Scholarship from KHS America. There were 23 applicants this year and the winner, Chauncey Kleveland, received her award during a dress rehearsal in San Antonio, Texas on Friday, January 2.
Ms. Kleveland is 17 years old and plans on attending the University of Nebraska in Lincoln in the fall. Besides playing the clarinet as her main instrument, Chauncey plays the piano in the school’s jazz band, sings in both her school’s concert choir and a Capella choir, and is a member of the school’s wind ensemble. “I want to be a music educator because I am passionate about music and people. I want to share with others the joy that music brings me,” stated Chauncey. “Band is a team where no one sits on the bench, teaching me to work with many personalities”
As part of the application process, students must submit an essay on why they are interested in becoming a music educator along with a letter of recommendation from their band director.
Ms. Kleveland’s music director, Andrew Johnson stated: “As talented as Chauncey is in all areas of music, her character, compassion, and love for others outweigh her musical abilities. As a musician and a person she is constantly making herself and others around her better.”
“Knowing the quality of students who get selected to be a part of US Army All American Marching Band is why we at KHS America are proud to offer a scholarship to a future music educator” stated Program Manager Rick DeJonge. “We need people like Chauncey Kleveland in our schools as music teachers and this scholarship is one of the ways we can help”
Photo: Tabor Stamper, president of KHS America, awards Chauncey Kleveland with a $1,000 scholarship to help her pursue her dream of becoming a Music Educator.
