The Luther College Music Department announces the Adolph “Bud” Herseth Scholarship, a prestigious award honoring the legacy of Luther alumnus and world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra principal trumpet player, Adolph “Bud” Herseth. This competitive scholarship is open to high school seniors across the United States, regardless of intended major, who demonstrate exceptional musical ability.
To be eligible for the scholarship is open to high school seniors in the United States with a weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher who apply and are accepted for enrollment at Luther College. Applicants must complete the Music Scholarship Application and demonstrate exceptional musical talent through pre-screen audition videos and, if selected, an in-person audition.
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Award
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Application Process
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Clarity of Information
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( votes)Founded in 1861 Luther College is a private liberal arts college located in Decorah, Iowa. Known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to the fine arts, Luther emphasizes both intellectual growth and personal development. The college has a distinguished reputation in music, offering students world-class opportunities in performance, ensembles, and scholarships.
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
Brief Description
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University or Organization: Luther College
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Department: Music Department
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Course Level: Undergraduate (any academic area)
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Award: Full tuition coverage or partial scholarships
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Access Mode: Online
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Number of Awards: Multiple (Herseth Scholarship, Honorable Mention, Weston Noble Excellence +)
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Nationality: U.S. students
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The award can be taken in: United States
Eligibility
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Eligible Countries: United States
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Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship is awarded in any subject offered by Luther College; however, students must audition in music.
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Admissible Criteria:
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Applicants must be high school seniors graduating in 2026.
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A minimum weighted high school GPA of 3.5 or higher.
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Must apply and be accepted for enrollment at Luther College.
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Must complete the Music Scholarship Application form.
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Applicants must demonstrate exceptional technical and expressive musical ability through auditions.
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How to Apply
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Apply for enrollment at Luther College (application must be completed before audition consideration).
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Complete the Music Scholarship Application form.
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Prepare and submit pre-screen audition videos (via YouTube or Google Drive links).
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Submission Deadline: January 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
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Selected candidates may be invited to an in-person audition on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
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Video sharing instructions will be emailed in December 2025.
Benefits
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Herseth Scholarship: Guaranteed gift assistance covering full-time tuition (from institutional, state, and federal sources).
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Herseth Honorable Mention Scholarship: $10,000 per year.
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Weston Noble Excellence + Scholarship: $7,000 per year.
