Beautiful Heart Scholarship

When Joanne Bath passed away on January 22, 2025, the world lost one of its most beautiful hearts. Her devotion to her student's character development was equal, if not paramount, to their musical development. On more than one occasion Joanne told me it is always easy to see which children are Suzuki students. They are always the most welcoming to others, especially those others may see as outsiders, and the first to offer help to those around them. Joanne truly believed in Suzuki's philosophy of making the world a more beautiful place and helping to create peace between nations by developing the character and hearts of our young people through the study of music. Her influence on me has been profound, not only as a teacher, but in that it has created a desire in me to be a kinder, more patient human being.

The NC Suzuki Institute was founded by Joanne Bath in 1982 as an opportunity for students to come together to enjoy learning and making music. In 2007 I began working closely with her and observed the love and care she put into all aspects of NCSI. Over the years as my role grew, I endeavored to emulate her objective of providing a nurturing environment for the hearts of these young musicians. In her honor I have established the Beautiful Heart Scholarship to be awarded to students who demonstrate through their every day actions strength of character, love for their fellow human beings, and the purity of a beautiful heart.

Students planning to attend NCSI may be nominated for the Beautiful Heart Scholarship by a teacher, friend, family member (with the exception of their own parent/guardian)... by completing the attached form. Awards may be partial or cover costs up to full tuition. 

All applications must be submitted by May 1, 2026, and awards will be announced by May 15, 2026. Questions may be sent to NCSI Director, Laura Eis at: laura_eis@hotmail.com.

Aiden Sanderson is one of the recipients of the 2026 Beautiful Heart Scholarship. He was nominated by his school band teacher, Mrs. McGowan. Here is what she wanted to share about him: "Aiden is such a good friend. I see him interacting with friends and peers daily, and he is kind and witty. He is dependable, not only as a student, but as a friend and band member. He loves all things music and it is obvious that he is having the best time making music. Music is his chosen family. He has created a life within the marching band and show band in Greene County. It is so good to see him coming out of his shell and living his best life. I love his love for music and wanting to make music in so many different ways!!"

Mrs. McGowan

Aiden's School Band Teacher

Antonio and Leonardo Venturelli-Romero are two of the recipients of the 2026 Beautiful Heart Scholarship. Here is what their violin teacher wanted to share about them: 

"Eight-year-old Antonio demonstrates a beautiful heart each week at group class. Week after week he helps me carry my instruments, teaching aid boxes, music stands, and lots more from my car to our classroom. He brings such a positive energy to his Book 1 class and is so encouraging toward his peers in the class. He is such an important part of my Suzuki studio community!

Four-year-old Leonardo demonstrates a beautiful heart by sharing with his one-year-old brother Andriano. Leo knows that his little brother loves to sing Up Down Goes My Bow (O Come, Little Children), [and] makes sure to choose the scarves out of the basket so that Andriano can do his favorite thing! Leo also helps me carry my things from the parking lot to the building for group lessons. He works very hard to carry a music stand bigger than he is!"

Rebecca Buchanan

Antonio and Leonardo's Violin Teacher

Olivia Byers (9 years old), the 2025 recipient of the Beautiful Heart Scholarship, is not only a wonderful violin student, but also an exceptionally kind person. While most Suzuki lessons finish with a bow, as often as not, Olivia adds a hug to the end of her lesson. She will often have words of encouragement for the students who have lessons before and after her, no matter their level, and is congratulatory to everyone at performances. Olivia's mom has commented that nowhere is a quick trip with Olivia, as she makes friends everywhere she goes! "I love your shirt/earrings/hair/shoes...," are often compliments Olivia pays to others, and she means them all with the greatest sincerity. In rehearsals she is always one of the first to help set up and put away chairs and stands, and as students leave group class she will call out, "Drive safe!" I can't remember ever seeing Olivia without a smile on her face, and these are only a few of the examples I have witnessed. Olivia Byers is an amazing example of someone who lives life with joy and beauty in her heart, and I am so grateful to be able to share part of her journey!

Laura Eis

Olivia's Violin Teacher