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The Lew and June Smith Jazz Vocal Memorial Scholarship

Lew Smith (saxophone/clarinet) and June Smith(vocals) are beloved figures in Perth’s jazz community. This scholarship generously established by Marcus Harris honours their legacy and enduring contribution to jazz in Western Australia. The scholarship is open to students enrolled in either jazz or contemporary music programs at WAAPA, including the Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Bachelor of Music. It is awarded to a vocalist who demonstrates excellence and potential in modern jazz performance, regardless of whether their principal study is jazz vocals. A vocalist with a passion to become a professional performer is likely to be well considered for the award. The Scholarship is a one off payment of $10,000.

Important dates

Opens: 25-05-2026 Closes: 28-06-2026

Applies to

Domestic VET Undergraduate

At a glance

  • This scholarship is open to current ECU students.
  • For more information, contact AskUs

Eligibility guidelines

In order to be eligible you must:

  • be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident;
  • have and maintain an academic progression status of GREEN;
  • not currently be in receipt of another scholarship over $5,000 per annum;
  • be currently enrolled full-time in one of the below courses;
    • C82 Diploma of Music (Jazz or Contemporary) VSAACE, VSAACD or VSAACC,
    • C77 Advanced Diploma of Music  (Music Artist) VSAAAW
    • W76 Bachelor of Music (Jazz or Contemporary) MAAAKL or MAAAKM

How to apply

Application is made via the ECU Online Scholarship Application Portal. Access to the portal is available between application opening and closing dates.

Applicants will be required to provide;

1) A personal statement of no more than 500 words addressing the following;

How do you see your future within the music profession, and how do you intend to pursue or realise that ambition?

2) A Video Submission – Modern Jazz Vocal Style

Applicant will be required to submit a 2–3 minute video via CANVAS. Showcasing their artistry in a modern jazz vocal style. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your musical identity, creativity, and technical skill within a jazz framework that reflects the sound and sensibilities of today.

What do we mean by “modern jazz vocal style”?

Modern jazz, in this context, refers to jazz that is current and relevant to today’s musical landscape. It embraces genre-blending and crossover influences—such as pop, R&B or neo-soul —while maintaining the core elements of jazz, including improvisation, harmonic variety, rhythmic flexibility, and expressive phrasing. We’re looking for performances that feel fresh and innovative, yet still rooted in the jazz tradition.

Your submission may be:

  1. A jazz standard reinterpreted with a modern approach—this could include reharmonisation, groove-based arrangements, or stylistic fusion.
  2. An original composition written and performed in a modern jazz style.
  3. A non-jazz piece (e.g., pop, R&B, folk) reimagined through a modern jazz lens, showcasing your ability to bring jazz sensibility to unexpected material.

Video Guidelines:

  1. Duration: 2 to 3 minutes
  2. Format: Accompanied (live instruments or backing track). Self accompaniment is also encouraged.
  3. Audio and visual quality should be clear enough to assess performance
  4. Please ensure your personality and musicality shine through—this is not just about technical perfection, but about artistic voice and connection

We encourage submissions that reflect jazz vocal excellence and interpretation. Whether you’re drawing from classic jazz influences or pushing boundaries with hybrid styles, we want to hear how you interpret ​jazz in your own voice.

Selection Process

Eligible applications will be assessed by a Selection Committee. Selection will based on:

Video Submission and  response to the Personal Statement.

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