The RHS Music Boosters offer this scholarship to select graduating seniors who are planning a career in music and/or will pursue a music major or minor in college, or plan to participate in a college level band or orchestra. Applicants must have been enrolled and participated in one or more instrumental music performing ensembles at Rocklin High School for at least two years, including the senior year. Applicants must submit a list of all music activities and music related community service in which they have participated during their high school years. Applicants must also submit an essay no longer than 500 words in length that answers the following questions, “How has your experiences learning and performing music changed your life?” and “What will you do with music in your future?” Be sure to answer both questions in your single essay.

The Conner Bickford Memorial Music Scholarship was established by the family and friends of Conner Bickford, a 2017 graduate of Rocklin High whose life ended tragically in early 2018. During his four years at Rocklin High School, Conner’s passion for music was limitless as he learned to play a variety of multiple instruments while performing with the Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, Symphonic Orchestra, Marching Band, Pep Band, Steel Drum Band and the Musical Pit Band. Conner also loved to perform with ensembles outside of school and his enthusiasm for music helped him reach out to make countless friends throughout the community. Conner’s legacy in the Instrumental Music Department lives on through the scholarship dedicated in his name. 

 

Every senior in the Rocklin High School instrumental music program is eligible for this scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to students who have many of the same personal traits that Conner exhibited: good musicianship, a strong team player who supports and encourages others, is committed to the music program by volunteering, actively listening, and taking advice; and showing leadership. Each year, Conner’s parents present scholarship recipients with a cash award and their names are added to a plaque that hangs proudly in the band room bearing Conner’s name. In addition, a Band Camp Scholarship is awarded in Conner’s name to an underclassman to support their continued musical experience with the hope they will share their passion for music with other students.