THOMPSON’S STATION, Tenn., — Christian recording artist Lindsay Huggins is beginning a music scholarship for youth who might not otherwise be able to participate in their school’s band program. This new scholarship will be awarded to three deserving students who desire to be involved in band but might be limited by finances. The scholarship will cover instrument rental costs and other participation fees.
Research supports that early music training dramatically enhances children’s abstract reasoning skills and higher brain functions needed for mathematics, science, and engineering. Studies also support that participation in music and the arts aids in the development of necessary life skills, such as self-confidence, self-discipline, and teamwork, while lessening the likelihood of involvement in criminal activity and substance abuse.
The College Entrance Examination Board found that “students involved in public school music programs scored 107 points higher on the SAT’s than students with no participation.†[Profiles of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, The College Board, compiled by the Music Educators National Conference (2002).]
The first year of this scholarship program will focus on students near Huggins’ home just outside Nashville, Tennessee. Spring Hill Middle School band teacher Jennifer Holmes is excited about the possibilities this new scholarship will provide. “As a music educator, I am witness to the profound effect that expressing themselves through music and belonging to a music program can have on a child’s self-esteem and character. Every year, I meet students who I know would enjoy and benefit from participating in the band program, but have financial limitations. I am thrilled to have this new scholarship available for those students.”
As a recording artist and worship leader, Huggins has a deep love and appreciation for music which began as a young child, carried her through college, and continues today.  “Studying and performing music together with my peers gave me a place of community and an outlet of expression in some of the most formative years of my life. I don’t want anyone to miss out on that opportunity because of financial need,†says Huggins. “We plan to start close to home here in the Nashville area, and expand the program to have a greater reach as funds allow.â€
The initiative kicks off just as Huggins is releasing a new single “You Can Use Me†to radio. The message of the song and the intent of this scholarship fund go hand in hand, with the focus on helping others and being used by God for a greater purpose.
This scholarship is an extension of Lindsay Huggins Ministries, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information about Lindsay Huggins Ministries or to make a tax-deductible donation to the music scholarship fund, visit www.lindsayhuggins.com.
