In a recent event held in New Orleans, the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts (GRFA) joined forces with the Trombone Shorty Foundation to celebrate the achievements of young artists and songwriters from across Louisiana. Thirteen high school students were awarded scholarships totaling $25,000 for their outstanding contributions to art and music. This year's theme, "HOME.LAND. – Reflections on Louisiana Landscapes and the Meaning of Home Through Art & Song," inspired participants to reflect on their personal interpretations of home through the lens of Louisiana's unique landscapes and cultural experiences.
The ceremony took place at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, where finalists and their families gathered for an awards luncheon. In addition to scholarship opportunities, winners in both categories will enjoy further recognition. Visual art pieces will tour statewide exhibitions, while the top songwriter will perform at the Trombone Shorty Foundation’s annual fundraiser. Furthermore, Loyola University’s College of Music and Media has extended recording and performance opportunities to songwriting finalists.
Celebrating Creativity: Scholarships for Aspiring Artists
Ten exceptional visual artworks stood out among numerous submissions, earning their creators scholarships worth $19,000. Judges evaluated each piece based on concept, technical skill, and creativity. These talented students not only showcased their artistic abilities but also contributed to preserving Louisiana’s rich heritage through their work. The winning pieces will embark on a state-wide exhibition tour, providing broader exposure for these budding artists.
A panel of esteemed judges selected ten finalists who collectively shared $19,000 in scholarships. Each entry was meticulously assessed according to its conceptual depth, executional excellence, and originality. Among the awardees, Michael Shi received the highest honor with a $5,000 scholarship for his piece “Through the Lens of Heritage.” Other notable works included Abram Ledet’s “Imperialism” and Hyowon Lee’s “Solace.” By participating in this contest, these students have secured valuable support for their future endeavors in higher education while gaining invaluable recognition within the artistic community. Additionally, their creations will be featured in traveling exhibitions throughout Louisiana, allowing them to share their visions with wider audiences.
Empowering Future Songwriters: A Platform for Musical Talent
Three promising young songwriters were recognized for their compositions that resonated deeply with the competition's theme. They collectively earned $6,000 in scholarships after impressing a panel of celebrity judges. Their songs demonstrated remarkable structure, melody, and lyrical prowess, capturing the essence of Louisiana's cultural identity. The first-place winner will collaborate with Loyola University’s music department, gaining access to advanced studio facilities and mentorship from seasoned professionals.
This year's songwriting contest saw fierce competition as three finalists emerged victorious, securing scholarships totaling $6,000. Annabeth Ellerman claimed the top prize of $3,000 for her evocative track “East Shore Road,” which beautifully encapsulated the spirit of Louisiana. John Zaffuto and Saige Berthelot followed closely behind, earning $2,000 and $1,000 respectively for their respective tracks “Old Trace, Hammond Song” and “The Beat of Louisiana.” Beyond monetary rewards, these finalists benefit immensely from partnerships with prestigious institutions like Loyola University. Here, they receive hands-on experience in professional studios, guidance from experienced mentors, and opportunities to distribute their original music digitally. Such collaborations foster growth and development, empowering these young talents to refine their craft and establish meaningful connections within the industry. Moreover, performing live at events such as Freret Fest provides invaluable exposure, helping them build confidence and expand their audience base.