The Thomas A. Erickson Double Bass Scholarship will be awarded by audition to an outstanding double bass student, age 15-21, for study at an established summer music program or for the purchase of an instrument. A first place award of $850 will be given in memory of Thomas Erickson, a respected, long-time bassist for the Grand Rapids Symphony and a teacher of many of West Michigan’s finest double bass students.
Congratulations to Levi Davis, the winner of our 2026 Thomas A. Erickson Scholarship competition! Levi will use the prize money towards the purchase of a double bass at Guarneri House.
Applicants for all scholarships must be residents or students within the Local 56 jurisdiction, which includes all of the following counties: Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Clare, Clinton, Crawford, Eaton, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Iosco, Isabella, Kalkaska, Kent, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Montcalm, Montmorency, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Ottawa, Presque Isle, Roscommon, and Wexford. The scholarships are paid directly to the instructor or organization providing the musical experience. It is our desire, when possible, to present awards in person at the student’s spring concert or awards ceremony, so please indicate the date of such on the application. Again, please note application deadlines and rules. Thank you.