1500 Sound Academy students
| April 15, 2024 |

Gibson Gives and 1500 Sound Academy Partner for Music Scholarships Across Three Cities

Local residents of LA, Beijing, and Taipei will learn the fundamentals of music and the industry

Gibson Gives announced a partnership with 1500 Sound Academy to award music scholarships and instrumental support across Los Angeles, Beijing, and Taipei. This initiative underscores Gibson’s commitment to fostering musical talent globally through substantial educational grants and resources.

Gibson Gives will partner with 1500 Sound Academy to provide five scholarships, each valued at $25,000, and furnishing instruments and gear worth over $12,500. This scholarship program will benefit students in Los Angeles, Beijing, and Taipei, aiming to cultivate musical talent and provide educational opportunities.

For over 130 years, Gibson has been instrumental in the music industry, offering quality guitars and other instruments synonymous with musical excellence. Gibson Gives, the company’s philanthropic arm, focuses on making music accessible to all, believing in its transformative power.

Located in Inglewood, California, 1500 Sound Academy is renowned for its advanced music education programs. It offers music production, engineering, songwriting, mixing, music business, and artist branding courses. The academy has become a pivotal establishment for aspiring musicians and industry professionals.

Statements from the leaders

Erica Krusen, Senior Director of Global Cultural Influence and Gibson Global Executive Director at Gibson Gives, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “Music has the power to transform lives, and at Gibson Gives, we are committed to amplifying this transformative potential,” said Krusen. “We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with 1500 Sound Academy, a beacon of excellence in music education. This collaboration extends our commitment to fostering talent globally.”

Twila True, co-founder of 1500 Sound Academy and CEO of True Family Enterprises, also shared her excitement about the collaboration. “1500 Sound Academy and Gibson Gives share a tireless commitment to providing musicians with the education, resources, and support that is vital on their journey,” said True. “We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership and the opportunities the Gibson Gives Scholarships will afford to young, bright minds as they pursue their dreams in the music industry.”

Application and selection process

Prospective students applying for the Gibson Gives Scholarship can submit their applications for programs in Los Angeles, Beijing, and Taipei by April 19, 2024, at 5 PM PT. The recipients of these prestigious scholarships will be announced on May 8, 2024.

A global impact

Through this partnership, Gibson Gives and 1500 Sound Academy are set to significantly impact the global music scene by providing young musicians with the tools, education, and opportunities needed to succeed. This initiative supports individual artists and contributes to the cultural enrichment of communities worldwide.

The collaboration between Gibson Gives and 1500 Sound Academy represents a significant commitment to developing musical talent and ensuring that the next generation of musicians has the support they need to thrive. It’s a shining example of how corporate philanthropy and dedicated educational institutions can come together to make a real difference in the arts community.

Learn more about Gibson Gives and the 1500 Sound Academy.