THE DOLAN PRIZE

Made possible by the Robert Emmett Dolan Prize Fund, a limited number of full and partial, merit and need-based financial aid awards will be distributed each semester to assist with MPP lesson fees. The Dolan Prize is available to undergraduate Columbia students currently receiving need-based financial aid, and whose audition score ranks among the highest in a given audition period (auditions take place only in the Fall). The Dolan Prize is administered by the MPP and may be awarded for the Fall, Spring, or both semesters, depending on available funding. Students must audition live and apply for the prize in the Fall. In order to accommodate the maximum number of students, the funding is normally limited to 2 semesters.

Auditions for the Dolan Prize take place at the same time as our regular MPP auditions during the first week of classes.

Audition Requirements:

• Sealed letter of recommendation from your instructor with details of their lesson fee per hour.  Letters may be brought to the audition or to Dr. Magdalena Stern-Baczewska's office in 618 Dodge by the end of the change-of-program-period.
• Prepare two contrasting pieces or movements to showcase your technical and musical abilities.
• Priority is given to Columbia College students who wish to study an instrument not represented at the College.
• You should already have studied with this teacher for 6 months prior to auditioning for the Dolan Prize.  
• You must be a participant of the Music Performance Program (one year commitment) in order to receive funding.