The Laurence “Larry” Laurenzano scholarship was created to honor Laurence Laurenzano, a musical legend. Larry led the Staten Island Community Band for over thirty years. He was a master educator, professional trumpeter, and a mentor to scores of musicians and educators throughout the metropolitan area. “Be a person first,” was Larry Laurenzano’s life philosophy, believing that "achievement is hollow without heart."
Award: In a living tribute to this wonderful man, the Staten Island Community Band is proud to offer this scholarship of $500 to a high school graduating senior with at least three consecutive years of consistent attendance at rehearsals and concerts.
Application: Scholarship applicants must submit a typed essay of at least 1,500 words but no more than 2,500 words on the following theme:
Music is an essential component in the foundation of life. How do you see music forming such a foundation in your life? How has music given you a passion for life? How are you a better person because music is a life force for your life?
Apply: Use the following link, or scan the QR code. https://forms.gle/5SkMk6GkL1zYHoFu7
Deadline for submission is not later than Friday, April 25, 2025.
This scholarship, named for the long-time SICB Librarian, will be awarded to 1 graduating high school senior that is actively participating in the Staten Island Community Band for the 2024-2025 school year. Applicants are asked to complete the essay question below, which will be reviewed by the Frey family. Essays must be submitted by Friday, April 25, 2025. The scholarships will be awarded at the Annual Spring Concert.
Applicants are asked to complete the following essay question, which will be reviewed by the Frey family.
What is your favorite piece of music to play, and why?
Your response should include the title, composer, genre, and the instrument you play, as well as a detailed rationale supporting your selection. You can also include if there was a preferred band or orchestra in which you played the piece. The response should be written in your own words.
Apply: Use the following link, https://forms.gle/Ge5Bf42jU2QTXWgc9
Deadline for submission is not later than Friday, April 25, 2025.
The purpose of the David LaMorte Scholarship Fund is to provide for instruction in music and music-related activities (including but not limited to instrumental, conducting, composition, arrangement). Applicants eligible for the award must be an active member of the Staten Island Community Band for at least three years. No applicant affiliated with any board member of the Executive Committee/Board will be eligible for an award. Applicants who have been previously awarded a scholarship will be eligible to re-apply.
Applications will be screened, and scholarships awarded based on the following:
Must be an active member of the Staten Island Community Band for at least three years.
A typed one-page essay of no more than 500 words from the applicant describing in his/her own words, how the award will be used, and why they have chosen to play an instrument or take up other music related activities.
The scholarship will be awarded to the applicant by a majority vote of Board members.
The Staten Island Community Band is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its scholarship awards.
Application packet should consist of the following and be received no later than Friday, April 25, 2025. The award will be presented at the Spring Concert.
Applicant Name
Email Address
What type of music instruction are you applying for?
Musical activities that you currently participate in or have participated in the past year.
One-Page Essay describing how the award will be used, and why you have chosen to play an instrument or take up other music related activities
Apply: Use the following link, or scan the QR code. https://forms.gle/Ag3jiXxjU2mW6u2h8
Deadline for submission is not later than Friday, April 25, 2025.
David LaMorte Music Scholarship Award Winner 2024
Congratulations to our 2024 winner Stephen Schwarz (center left), pictured here with Michael LaMorte (left), Rev. Garry Squire (center right) and Mrs. LaMorte (right).
Larry Laurenzano Scholarship Award Winner 2024
Congratulations to our 2024 winner Angelina Ferraioli, pictured here with family friend and band member Allan Katz.
Judge David Frey Scholarship Award Winner 2024
Congratulations to our 2024 winner Milo Berntsen, pictured here with Judge Frey's wife.
Larry Laurenzano Scholarship Award Winner 2023
Congratulations to our 2023 winner Rebecca Helfman, pictured here with Larry's family, band President Rev. Garry Squire, family friend and band member Allan Katz, and Conductor David LaMorte.
Judge David Frey Scholarship Award Winner 2023
Congratulations to our three 2023 winners Nava Blyakher, Rebecca Helfman, and Rebecca Nearby, pictured here with Judge Frey's wife, band President Rev. Garry Squire, and Conductor David LaMorte.