2026 Marcus Awards Applications Now Open

Once again, The Council of Canadian Bassoonists is proud to present two annual scholarships honouring a legend of the Canadian bassoon world…The Frank Marcus Awards.

FRANK MARCUS AWARD MISSION STATEMENT

“The Frank Marcus Award celebrates the spirit of community within the Canadian bassoonist community. Aligned with the values of the Council of Canadian Bassoonists, this scholarship is dedicated to fostering the development of bassoonists of all ability and experience levels. We warmly welcome applicants from all backgrounds, embracing their unique musical journeys while prioritizing passion and potential to identify committed musicians eager to explore and express their dedication to the bassoon” – Emily Gibb.

Frank Marcus Awards – 2026–2027 Academic Year

The Council of Canadian Bassoonists (COCB) is proud to present two annual scholarships, the Frank Marcus Awards. These awards are granted to bassoonists enrolled at a Canadian university* or conservatory* for the 2026–2027 academic year.

● First Prize: $2000
● Second Prize: $1000

Awards are to be used toward tuition reimbursement.

Key Dates

● June 1, 2026: Online applications open
● August 17, 2026: Applications due by 11:59 PM PST  ***Please note extended deadline***
● September 1, 2026: Conditional recipients notified by email

Recipients will have six months to redeem their scholarship via eTransfer.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

● 1 Written Response
● 2 Performance Examples:

Please record yourself performing ONE of these excerpts.

A notable solo performance from the past year. (10 minutes maximum)

Please state your repertoire title & composer on video and/or in the video description.

● 1 Reference Letter
● 1 Unofficial Academic Transcript

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

● Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
○ Canadian citizens or permanent residents studying outside of Canada for the 2026-2027 academic year are eligible.*
● Be one of the following:
○ Grade 12 student, or
○ Enrolled in (or planning to enroll in) a full-time undergraduate or graduate program, or conservatory equivalent
● Be pursuing studies as a bassoonist
● Previous winners are not eligible to apply at this time.

Recipient Requirements

Conditional recipients must submit Proof of Enrollment for Fall 2026 by September 15, 2026.

Valid documentation must include:

● Student name
● School name
● Academic term and year
● Date issued
● Program of study

Acceptance letters are not considered proof of enrollment.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are reviewed by at least three COCB board members based on:

● Written statement and performance submissions
● Academic transcript and reference letter

Preference is given to students pursuing a Bachelor or Master of Musical Arts.

Board members do not evaluate their own students.

Questions

Contact: emilyra.gibb@gmail.com

CLICK THE LINK TO APPLY

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