The Albert Lea Civic Music Association announces its upcoming scholarship auditions in May. Several scholarships are available for local young musicians. The summer music camp scholarships are available for junior and senior students who are interested in attending a summer music program. Up to two awards are available in each age bracket.

Auditions consist of two contrasting pieces in style and period. Also available is a college scholarship for a student who has finished their freshman year of college. Audition requirements include a movement of a concerto and a contrasting piece from any time period. For vocal auditions, one piece must be in a foreign language and one in English. While preference is given to music majors, non-music majors may also audition.

The Helen Wipplinger Organ and Piano Lesson Scholarship is also available. This scholarship is made possible by the generosity of the late, Helen Wipplinger. Wipplinger was an accomplished musician and music lover who desired to promote and encourage the education and training of future church organists and pianists. Anyone wishing to pursue training to play in church should apply for this scholarship. Adult lesson awards are also available. Applicants must prepare one of the required pieces, a piece of their choice, a hymn of their choice and a hymn that is sight-read.

Deadline for applications are due on or before May 6. Auditions will be May 24. Scholarship forms have been sent to all area schools and many local piano teachers. Audition forms will also be available at the Civic Music concert on Tuesday.

Last year’s recipients were Ray Stephenson, James Dundas, Maria Silva, Lindsey Thisius, Amber Klein, Hannah Goemann, Claire Bias, Emma Behling and Melody Randall. A public recital given by the 2012 scholarship winners will be June 4 at First Presbyterian Church in Albert Lea. The recital will begin at 6 p.m. and the public is invited to come and hear the talent from the Albert Lea area. For complete requirements and application forms for any of the scholarships, please contact Eileen Nelson Ness at 377-2075 or Sue Jorgensen at 377-1580.