2006 John Lennon Scholarship Competition Opens for Young Songwriters

The BMI Foundation has announced the opening of the 9th Annual John Lennon Scholarship competition for young songwriters. Established by Yoko Ono in 1997, the John Lennon Scholarships are made possible through generous donations from Ono with matching funds from Gibson Musical Instruments. One $10,000 scholarship (first place) and two $5,000 scholarships (second and third place) will be awarded in 2006. Students between the ages of 15 and 24 from more than 50 select schools have been invited to apply. MENC: the National Association for Music Education will also submit additional entries to the competition drawn from its college and university chapters around the county. The postmark deadline for entries is January 20, 2006. Submitted songs must have original music and lyrics. Click here for detailed information, including a list of eligible schools, official rules and application materials. Questions may be addressed to info@bmifoundation.org. The BMI Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1985 to support the creation, performance and study of music through awards, scholarships, commissions and grants. Tax-deductible donations to the Foundation come primarily from songwriters, composers and publishers, BMI employees and members of the public with a special interest in music. Because both the Foundation staff and the distinguished members of the Advisory Panel serve without compensation, over 95% of all donations and income are used for charitable grants.