
The Romona Riscoe Benson Fellowship, launched by PECO and the PYO Music Institute, opens doors for underrepresented BIPOC female students through the Philadelphia Youth Jazz Orchestra (PYJO).
The Philadelphia Youth Jazz Orchestra (PYJO), a program division of the PYO Music Institute (PYOMI), proudly announces the launch of the Romona Riscoe Benson Fellowship, a new initiative providing full scholarships and mentorship to two BIPOC female jazz students from underserved communities.
Funded by PECO and originated with support from Mid-Atlantic Arts, the fellowship honors Romona Riscoe Benson’s legacy as a lifelong arts and community impact leader. Fellows will receive full tuition remission to participate in PYJO in both the fall season and summer jazz program.
“Romona Riscoe Benson’s legacy of championing access and opportunity empowers us to uplift unheard voices and forge a future where young women of color are central to the art form and recognized as such. This fellowship serves as our collective step toward making that vision a reality in our present,” said Justin Faulkner, Director of Jazz.
Auditions are now open. Interested students and families can learn more and apply at:
🔗 https://pyomusic.org/audition-form
List “Benson Fellowship” in the comments on your application
For more information, please contact:
Patrick Bailey, Director of Education
pbailey@pyomusic.org – 215.545.0502
To contribute to the Romona Riscoe Benson Fellowship Fund, please contact:
Richard Clark, Director of Development
rclark@pyomusic.org – 215.545.0502
Romona Riscoe Benson
