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The Gift of Song

Raymond Cruz

Memorial Scholarship

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Raymond M. Cruz

Raymond Marcial Cruz valiantly fought a three-year battle with Ewing-like Sarcoma. He was a talented singer-songwriter, who throughout his battle shared his message of hope, love, positivity and generosity through his music. Ray lived fully through every moment of his life. He was wise beyond his years and was not shy about sharing his wisdom if he felt you needed to hear it. He was an amazingly keen young man who understood the human spirit like few others. He was not afraid to step in and be the spark for others when their own light dimmed and needed rekindling. He was a constant bright light to those who had the pleasure and honor of knowing him. His legacy of joy, kindness, grace, and generosity will live on in those who knew him and through the good works that will continue in his name.

 

For more information on Raymond's foundation, please visit www.RayofLightTN.com

Applications are now open to Class of '23 and '24 students of color.  Check out our new and streamlined application process with more scholarships awarded!

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION, ELIGIBILITY & INSTRUCTIONS

In partnership with Gift of Song, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Raymond Cruz Memorial scholarship provides mentorship, resources and financial assistance to TN students of color who wishes to pursue a theatre degree in college.

Here are some of the resources that the scholarship fund provides:

*An "Ultimate" Coaching Package from our partner, College Audition Project (CAP)

*Registration for participation in CAP United Auditions, held in November 2023.

 

*Acting instruction and monologue coaching package from our partner, MJE Acting Studio

*Summer College Audition workshop (including travel expenses) with Broadway Artists Alliance in NYC

*Headshot session with our partner Barb Jones Photography

*Voice, acting and dance instruction

*Funding for college application and prescreen fees

*Funding for travel expenses related to college visits and live auditions

*Additional resources and funding for audition necessities such as headshots, apparel, dance shoes, sheet music, piano tracks and technology required for prescreens and virtual auditions

 

*Assistance with college program research; cost of attendance, application requirements, schedules, deadlines and financial aid.

*Mentorship and education on the college audition process.

*Guidance on resume writing, audition material selection, applications, travel booking, and much more.

 

 For questions or more information, please email us at thegiftofsongus@gmail.com

A huge "THANK YOU" to our PARTNERS :

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