Amusement & Music Operators Association

Here are two letters received from winners of AMOA-directed scholarship programs: The Rich Holley Memorial Music Scholarship and the Wayne E. Hesch Scholarship initiatives:

— From Matt Gender, 2012 Rich Holley Music Scholarship recipient:

"I am very grateful to the Rich Holley family for establishing a music scholarship to enable young musicians like me to complete my Bachelor of Music degree, a major step in my career plan. With my degree and the support of my professor, Dr. Laura Ellis, my next step is post-graduate work for my MM.

My family has also encouraged and supported my efforts, borrowing money to pay for my college expenses. With the Rich Holley Memorial scholarship, I feel as though I am trying my best to contribute too, as well as to honor the Rich Holley family. I truly appreciate your generosity and consideration — it is for you that all my hours of lessons and practice are dedicated. This scholarship gives me a wonderful opportunity, as a student organist, to reach to the future of my craft and celebrate the artistry of my instrument as well as the music composed for it. Please accept my sincere thanks, and please continue to support young musicians."

— From Alex Goldman, 2012-13 Wayne E. Hesch Scholarship recipient:

"I would like to express my gratitude for receiving the Wayne E. Hesch memorial scholarship. I am excited about my upcoming sophomore year at Belmont University and am very thankful for the financial help you provided. If any of you are in Nashville [Tenn.] at Christmas, I invite you to attend our outstanding musical event, Christmas at Belmont."