Scholarships & Financial Aid
Every student deserves access to an excellent music education. Need-based financial assistance, family discounts, and payment plans help make participation in the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Program possible.
Making music education accessible
Richmond Symphony School of Music is committed to enrolling students from diverse economic, religious, ethnic, racial, and social backgrounds. Need-based assistance is available for families who would otherwise be unable to afford participation.
About financial assistance
- Awards are based on demonstrated financial need and the availability of assistance funds.
- Funds are limited and are generally awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Families must reapply with each registration.
- Awards are applied as a percentage reduction of total tuition.
- Students receiving financial assistance are not eligible for additional tuition discounts.
Additional payment options
Families with multiple children enrolled in the Youth Orchestra Program may qualify for a tuition discount. Payment plans are also available upon request.
Application checklist
Application forms and deadlines are updated for each registration period. A complete financial-assistance request generally includes:
- A completed Financial Assistance application
- A recent pay stub for each wage earner
- A copy of the most recent Federal Tax Return or qualifying proof of public assistance
- Documentation of any significant changes or extenuating circumstances, when applicable
Applications cannot be reviewed until all required materials have been received.
For the current application, deadline, or questions about required documentation, contact the Education team.
Support for participating families
Need-based assistance
Tuition assistance may be available when program costs would otherwise prevent a student from participating.
Family discounts
Families enrolling more than one child in the Youth Orchestra Program may qualify for a multi-student tuition discount.
Flexible payment plans
Payment arrangements may be available upon request to help families spread tuition costs across the season.
Explore the Youth Orchestra Program
Learn more about the Youth Orchestra Program, explore its five ensembles, or review current audition information and requirements.
The Richmond Symphony School of Music Financial Assistance Program is supported by the Martha D. Newell Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Brian Szabo Memorial Scholarship Fund, and the Music Education Scholarship Fund of the Richmond Symphony Endowment.