MTSU launches ‘Where Every Note Counts’ scholarship campaign to support music students
Middle Tennessee State University has officially launched its “Where Every Note Counts” School of Music scholarship campaign, marking the occasion with a kickoff event held Tuesday, April 14. The event brought together alumni, students, faculty, and supporters inside the Miller Education Center atrium to celebrate the initiative and highlight the impact of scholarship support on student success.
The program featured remarks from university leaders, live student performances, and personal stories from scholarship recipients who shared how financial assistance has shaped their educational journeys. The campaign is centered on expanding scholarship opportunities for students in the School of Music as well as members of the Band of Blue, many of whom represent a wide range of majors across the university.
Jennifer Snodgrass, director of the MTSU School of Music, emphasized the importance of scholarships in helping students pursue their passion. She noted that many students must weigh not only where they want to study but also where they can afford to study, making financial support a deciding factor in their education.
The School of Music currently serves more than 300 students, including undergraduate majors and minors along with graduate students. The Band of Blue includes approximately 215 students, many of whom are pursuing degrees in fields such as engineering, business, and computer science while staying actively involved in music performance.
According to Mark Clark, executive director of development at MTSU, scholarship support is essential in helping students balance the demands of academics and music. He explained that the time students spend practicing and performing represents a significant commitment to the university, often limiting their ability to earn income.
The goal of the campaign is to remove financial barriers so students can fully focus on their education, participate in ensembles and performances, and prepare for careers in music and related industries. Snodgrass added that scholarships allow students to pursue their goals more freely by reducing financial stress and giving them more time to dedicate to their craft and coursework.
Supporters have several ways to contribute, including donating to the School of Music Excellence Endowment, the Band of Blue Excellence Endowment, or establishing a named scholarship. Contributions can be made through one-time gifts, recurring donations, or multi-year pledges.
Clark said that investing in students is one of the most meaningful contributions supporters can make, noting that the benefits extend beyond the individual to the broader community.
More information about the “Where Every Note Counts” campaign, including how to contribute, can be found at give.mtsu.edu/pages/music-campaign.
