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Aurelianus Varro University

AVU Scholarships and Endowment Funds

Named Scholarships & Endowed Funds

Students indicate which scholarships they wish to apply for at the time of university application, assuming eligibility. For current students, the scholarship application process occurs through the jury forms submitted at the end of each spring semester. The jury or live audition itself serves as the application for the selected scholarships.

The Fitzwilliam Darcy Scholarship Fund

Established 1812 • Bequeathed to AVU in 2025

One of the most historically significant awards at AVU, this fund was established by the Darcy family of Derbyshire and formally entrusted to the University at its founding. It supports up to four classical pianists each year, providing four full years of funded study, including tuition, fees, and housing. Recipients demonstrate exceptional refinement, technical mastery, and a deep commitment to the classical piano tradition.

The Anna Karenina Artistic Truth Award

Established 1877

Endowed by the Oblonsky Cultural Trust, this award honors students whose musical work reflects unusual interpretive honesty and emotional depth. Granted annually to one vocalist or pianist, the award covers full tuition and provides yearly funding for recital presentation, encouraging fearless and meaningful artistic expression.

The Athos de la Fère Award for Chamber Music Leadership

Established 1844

Named for a noble patron of the French court renowned for integrity and calm leadership, this award supports students who excel in collaborative music-making. Up to three chamber musicians are selected each year to receive half-tuition support and personalized mentorship from visiting chamber artists focusing on ensemble balance, communication, and artistic unity.

The Jay Gatsby Arts Fellowship

Established 1925

Inspired by the glamour and cultural vibrancy of West Egg society, this fellowship recognizes performers whose artistry radiates charisma, polish, and stylistic individuality. Awarded to one jazz musician, the fellowship provides two years of full tuition, along with dedicated support for professional recordings, performance attire, portfolio materials, and artist-development coaching. It fosters confident, captivating, and expressively free performance.