Legacy Foundation Of PB County Awards $11,860 In Scholarships To Seven Promising Young Musicians

The Legacy Foundation of Palm Beach County, an extension of the outreach programs of The Palm Beach Pops, today announced the winners of this year's first group of Legacy Scholarships to help young people continue their music education. This year's winners include a double set of sisters.

"A total of $11,860 was awarded to seven promising young musicians, ranging in age from 7 to 17, who this year had the extra burden of auditioning by email and video during our current Covid-19 pandemic," said Jon Lappin, founder, president and executive director of the Legacy Foundation. "The awarded scholarship funds will be used to pay for instruments, lessons, music school tuition or other performing needs."

The 2020 Legacy Foundation scholarship recipients are:

• Isabella James (12) A violinist who attends BAK Middle School of the Arts in West Palm Beach.
• Alani Ritter (12) A violinist who attends BAK Middle School of the Arts in West Palm Beach.
• Hanalei Ritter (15) A violinist who attends Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach.
• Hailey Scarantino (10) A violinist who attends The Conservatory School @ North Palm Beach.
• Lucy Sheridan (7) A violinist who attends Palm Beach Public Elementary School.
• Audrey Whitaker (13) A viola player who is homeschooled.
• MaryJane Whitaker (17) A cellist who is homeschooled.

"I am very proud that over our first four years, we have awarded more than 100 scholarships for music lessons, orchestra dues, camps, musical instruments, and more, with a total value of over $210,000," Lappin adds. "Previous scholarship recipients have used their funding money to continue to grow their musical abilities and excel on their chosen instrument through graduation."

Lappin praised the audition judges for "once again taking the time to contribute to the cultural landscape of Palm Beach County (by assisting) these young determined musicians to pursue their passions. And a special thanks to the dedicated board members of the Legacy Foundation who made it possible to continue this invaluable funding even during a challenging economic downturn."