On Jan. 16, there were 18 local high school music students who auditioned at Tryon Estates for the annual scholarships to Cannon Music Camp, held at Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C. Each year the Laurel Lake Music Society, Inc. of Columbus, N.C. holds the audition to allow well qualified music students from Polk County, N.C. and Landrum, S.C. to apply for these fully paid scholarships. The scholarship includes tuition, meals, and room for the three-week intensive training in music theory and performance, conducted in July.

The staff at Appalachian State University will evaluate the auditions and the scholarships will be funded by the Laurel Lake Music Society, from the voluntary contributions of residents at Tryon Estates. Those rated the highest in ability will be eligible for scholarships, based on available funds. The Laurel Lake Music Society funded nine scholarships in 2015. Since 2002 the Laurel Lake Music Society has awarded music scholarships totaling more than $150,000.

Tryon Estate residents Peter Cooke and Marilyn Yike did the planning and scheduling for the auditions. More than 45 Tryon Estates residents assisted them as hosts, guides and photo-video specialists.

– Submitted by Al Hart