Chad Smith’s Minnesota Roots Inspire New UMN Scholarship
As drummer of the GRAMMY-winning band Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chad Smith is no stranger to performing in front of thousands of passionate fans. Many School of Music students have similar dreams: to craft their own music for others to enjoy. When Chad Smith enters Huntington Bank Stadium for the October 11 halftime show with the University of Minnesota Marching Band, a new scholarship will debut, inspiring young Minnesota musicians to follow their musical dreams. Returning to Smith’s Minnesota roots, this scholarship will honor his parents, proud University of Minnesota alumni Curtis and Joan Smith.
Curtis and Joan Smith graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1957 and 1948, respectively, with Curtis attending through the G.I. Bill. Chad credits their support and university education with instilling a lifelong love of learning, which crucially exposed him to the arts at a young age.
This is the first-ever University scholarship from the Chad Smith Foundation, which is dedicated to bridging the gap in musical access and opportunity for underserved youth. Smith hopes the scholarship will encourage future generations of University of Minnesota students to pursue music. He thrived in school music programs through high school, which gave him the inspiration and skills to chase his dream.
Smith holds a profound belief in the benefits of a broad music education, which influenced the creation of the Chad Smith Foundation. “By connecting the dots between the incredible work of community music schools across Minnesota and the world-class programs at the U, we can create real opportunities for the next generation.”
Eligibility will focus on students entering the University of Minnesota's School of Music who have come through Minnesota's nonprofit community music programs, with special consideration for those from underserved and underrepresented communities.
"This partnership is a powerful testament to the impact of a University of Minnesota education, one that echoes through generations,” School of Music Director Patrick Warfield remarked. “We are profoundly grateful to the Chad Smith Foundation for choosing us as their inaugural partner and for creating a scholarship that honors two University of Minnesota alumni, Curtis and Joan Smith. This fund will not only change lives but will also strengthen our bonds with vital community music programs across the state.”
A special luncheon featuring Chad Smith supporting the new scholarship will take place on Saturday, October 11 at 11:00 AM. Tickets are still available for purchase.
