First announced in 2006, the Sam Baird Scholarship was established to help local students pursue their musical aspirations. This annual scholarship is funded through donations made by our members, business partners, and private citizens.

The Sam Baird Scholarship continues the legacy of noted musician and San Antonio Blues Society member Sam Baird, who supported and nurtured the growth of the area music community for many years. This is an ongoing endeavor, working in conjunction with schools, parents, sponsors, corporate members, and community leaders to get as many students involved as possible. The scholarship program awards those applicants who best demonstrate a strong desire to pursue their musical ambitions and exhibit strong abilities in their field.  Finally, you do not need to be a Member of SABS to apply.

The Sam Baird Scholarship is temporarily off-line while it undergoes changes. We are looking to relaunch in 2025. 

 2024 sam baird scholarship recipients 

The award ceremony was almost a show in itself. We awarded five scholarships to five wonderful students from the area: Sophie and Anne Haussmann from Claudia Taylor Johnson High School, Stefan Emery and Jose Gomez from Lytle High School, and Jack Duffett from Randolph High School. Applications and perfomance samples were judged by the Scholarship Committee and they were impressed by how involved each of these students were with extracurricular musical activities. Students rewarded with nominations to various orchestras and ensembles, receiving distitrict and state recognition. Each gave of their free time thru years of learning and practicing. They love music. And they showed it. Look at the picture below. This is why we do this. The intent of the scholarship was to assist graduates to continue their musical ambitions as they continue their education. Each recipient appreciates having these funds to help them in their freshman year. As they appreciate the help of family and friends, instructors, and other mentors. These people have played such an important role in the young lives of our winners and their drive for success. Such devotion and love is such a good reflection on people.

AWARD WINNERS AND FAMILIES
Sophie Haussmann  •  Anne Haussmann  •  Stefan Emery  •  Jose Gomez  •  Jack Duffett

THE CLASS OF 2024   (alphabetically)
	JACK DUFFETT  is a senior at Randolph High School. With a deep-rooted passion for guitar and a keen interest in the business side of music, Jack has set his sights on carving out a unique path in the world of music entrepreneurship. Having recently secured acceptance to The Greenwood School of Music at Oklahoma State University. He plans to major in Music Industry with a focus on Guitar, aiming to hone his skills and knowledge to eventually establish his own high-end music store, catering to the needs of fellow musicians. With aspirations of attaining a Master's in Business Administration, he seeks to complement his musical expertise with a robust understanding of entrepreneurship. Not content with just excelling in performance and business, Jack harbors a fascination with the art of crafting guitars, he plans to attend a luthier school. Jack's journey in music began in the school band, initially taking up the saxophone before transitioning to the electric bass. His talent and dedication eventually earning the title of Front Ensemble Leader and garnering recognition with the Band Director's Award. Outside of school, Jack's musical exploration led him to discover his true passion: the guitar. He immersed himself in the vibrant community of The School of Rock, seizing every opportunity to perform and refine his craft. Alongside his dedication to playing, Jack has diligently studied Music Theory and Band Management. Jack was handpicked to join the esteemed School of Rock House Band.
	STEFAN EMERY is a dedicated musician with a passion for both performance and education. Born in Bulgaria, Stefan embarked on his musical journey at the age of 7 when he began taking guitar lessons. His early immersion in music sparked a lifelong love affair with the art form. At the age of 10, Stefan and his family relocated to the United States, where he continued to nurture his musical talents. In the 6th grade, Stefan joined the school band program, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his musical development. Currently a senior at Lytle High School, Stefan has found his niche playing the French horn. His exceptional skill and commitment to excellence have earned him a Division 1 rating, reflecting his mastery of the instrument. In regional band auditions, Stefan's talent shone brightly as he not only advanced to the Area level but also secured a coveted position as the top chair in the region band. His journey didn't stop there; Stefan's remarkable talent propelled him to the State level, a testament to his unwavering dedication and musical prowess. Stefan has been accepted at Texas A&M University Kingsville, where he will major in music. His ultimate goal is to become a band director and music professor, where he can inspire young minds and cultivate a deep love for music. Through his teaching, Stefan hopes to instill not only musical skill but also a sense of discipline, creativity, and compassion in his students, nurturing them to become better individuals and accomplished musicians and composers.
	JOSE GOMEZ  is a senior at Lytle High School with a profound passion for music, particularly the clarinet. His journey into the world of music began in fifth grade when he joined the school band program. Jose has become proficient in both the Contra and Bass clarinet, showcasing his versatility and talent. During his junior year, Jose's participated in the Assoc of Texas Small School Bands (ATSSB) Solo and Ensemble competition. Notably, he clinched the coveted 1st chair position on Contra clarinet, a testament to his skill and dedication. His exceptional performance led him to advance to the Area level, where he secured the 2nd chair position and earned the prestigious title of alternate for the All-State band. Looking towards the future, Jose has set his sights on pursuing a degree in Music Performance at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). His dream is to become a part of UTSA's renowned big orchestra, where he can further hone his craft and immerse himself in the world of professional music. For Jose, music is more than just a hobby; it's a source of solace, expression, and connection. He believes that musicians are like poets, weaving melodies that evoke emotions and stories within the hearts of listeners. Through his musical journey, Jose has found lifelong friendships, a creative outlet for his emotions, and a deep sense of purpose.
	ANNE HAUSSMANN  is a senior at Claudia Taylor Johnson High School, her passion for music has been evident in her achievements. Her dedication to her craft and the collaborative spirit of her bandmates led to numerous accolades, including victories at the state marching contest, honor band competitions, and participation in the prestigious Texas All-State Symphonic Band. Anne has spent six years honing her flute skills under the guidance of mentors and instructors such as Emily Girwitz. While attending college, Anne envisions herself not only mastering the intricacies of business but also preparing to perform on a symphonic stage. She will also use her talents to teach future flute players. For Anne, music is a familial bond that transcends language and connects enerations. She comes from a lineage of musicians, with her mother, sister, and cousins all embracing the language of melody. This familial resonance has been a guiding force in Anne's musical journey, shaping her aspirations and fueling her dedication. Anne was born into a family of German immigrants and will be the  first-generation to attend college in the United States. Anne is finalizing her college selection between Texas State University or Southern Methodist University, where she plans to pursue her dual passions of business and flute performance.
	SOPHIE HAUSSMANN  is a senior at Claudia Taylor Johnson High School. For Sophie, playing the clarinet has been a central aspect of her life for the past seven years. Sophie's involvement in various ensembles, including the wind ensemble and marching band, has provided her with opportunities to showcase her talent and share her love for music with others. This year she earned a spot in the prestigious 2023-2024 Texas All State Bands. Throughout her high school career, Sophie has embraced the challenge of competitive performances, participating in UIL and Honor Band competitions, as well as Bands of America competitions. One of the most rewarding aspects of Sophie's musical journey has been the friendships she has forged within the band program. Collaborating with her peers, she has found a sense of belonging and support that transcends the notes on a page. Looking ahead, Sophie plans to continue her musical journey beyond high school, aspiring to play clarinet throughout college and beyond. Sophie's next chapter will begin at Texas State University. With her sights set on a future filled with music, Sophie is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world through her artistry and dedication.

The awarding of the awards this year was a bit of a challenge. Due to circumstances, we had a scholarship winner that could not attend the awarding ceremony. This occurs at our Fiesta Blues Heritage Series event. Fortunately, we were able to hold a small get-together to award the remaining scholarship.

The appreication expressed by the winners and their families is something to behold and reminds us of the importance to do this every year. The way that everyone came together to bring about this wonderful conclusion to our 2023 Scholarship is a true inspiration. We are ready to get our 2024 Scholarship campaign up and going.

THE FIRST AWARDING SESSION
April 16, 2023 • SABS Fiesta Blues Heritage Series at Sam's Burger Joint
A very special thanks to the parents for being at the show to share in the recognition and appreciation shown to their children, these find young musicians.

AWARD WINNERS AND FAMILIES
Reel Family  •  Nasto Family  •  Scott Mayo (SABS)  •  Keller Family  •  Garcia Family

THE SECOND AWARDING SESSION
May 9, 2023 • Lytle award winner and her entourage at Harter Music Studios
Through the efforts of Lytle High School faculty member Lorrianne Migura and the bandmates. They came enforce to accompany Citlali to her special award ceremony at Harter Music. 

AWARD WINNER AND FRIENDS
Lorrianne Migura (Lytle HS)  •  Citlali  Ferriera   •  Pamela Harter (SABS)
Picture on right is Citlali surrounded by her band pals from LHS

THE CLASS OF 2023
	CITLALI FERREIRA  Sam Baird Scholarship Recipient, graduate from Lytle High School, and will be studying at the Univerity of Texas at San Antonio. Citlali has played the flute since 6th grade and has earned local and state recognition of her talents. In high school she was part of the Marching Band. She does take her music to an interesting direction: through majoring in Psychology she will examine and further the healing effect music has on the mental health of people. Two-time selection to both regional symphony and concert band by ATSSB (Association of Texas Small School Bands). First place finish for her at the state level, both in flute solo and flute ensemble.
	CAROLINE GARCIA  Sam Baird Scholarship Recipient, graduate from Smithson Valley High School and will attend Ottawa University. Caroline began playing guitar at age nine. Her instructor was Charlie Wood, a legendary local guitar player. His love of blues music definitely influenced Caroline but he made sure to expose her to varieties of music to develop her appreciation of all genres. After Charlie’s death, Caroline continued with the guitar, teaching herself, finding every resource she could to refine her style. When she got to high school, the choir was adventure in music and she enjoyed it immensely. To top it off, Caroline has been playing the piano for the last three years. Awarded acceptance to Ottawa University School of Music.
	TY KELLER  Sam Baird Scholarship Recipient, graduate from Samuel V. Champion High School, heading to Boston University's Tanglewood Institute. Ty’s musical journey began in middle school band class and has totally engulfed him. His first ensemble class had him captivated and his new course was set. Picking up a pair of drumsticks when he was fourteen, Ty is now committed to becoming a professional musician, seeking to become a member of a major orchestra.   Selected to the Juilliard Summer Percussion Seminar in New York City. Member of Youth Orchestra of San Antonio (YOSA).
	JOSHUA NASTO  Sam Baird Scholarship Recipient, graduate from Cornerstone Christian School, and will be attending the University of North Texas. Joshua has been involved with music since the age of 4. It began with the piano. At first he played by ear and then began taking lessons. He attended the San Antonio Music Academy where he had his first recital. Dedicated to classical piano for ten years, Joshua was exposed to jazz and blues in the sixth grade when he took up the saxophone in band class and his world was changed. Member of Youth Orchestra of San Antonio (YOSA) for 4 years. Member of Association of Texas Small School Bands All State Jazz Ensemble for 2 years.
	SOPHIE REEL  Sam Baird Scholarship Recipient, graduate from L.E.E. High School, and will be a freshman at Texas State University studying Sound Recording Technology. Her passion for music began with the French Horn in 7th grade, which she continues to play at the Northeast School for the Arts (NESA). This expanded into singing and song writing. She plays her French Horn for chamber concerts as well as full orchestra events. Sophie has also won acclaim for her classical guitar music. Placed second in the Southwest Guitar Symposium, prestigious affair at UTSA. Member of Youth Orchestra of San Antonio (YOSA).

The COVID outbreak in 2020 compelled us to change the judging of our otherwise annual scholarship. Thankfully now, for some time, authorities have relaxed public safety regulations and we are back to more of what we have been used to for so many decades. Thankfully, we were able to get the 2022 Sam Baird Scholarship program back onto schedule and two winners were awarded. Isabella Perez and Jake Troop Valdivia. All submissions included a written piece and a performance piece.

Isabella produced a beautiful piece on the bassoon and her essays repeated her desire to one day be a musician in a renowned symphony. Pure and simple. She will be attending UT Austin in the fall. Before those classes start, Isabella will attend summer Orchestra programs at the Brevard Music Center as well as the Interlochen Center.

Jake excelled on his performance piece with music for the flute. Jake's love for music not only includes performing but also sound engineering. He will continue ensemble work in college while studying Mechanical Engineering. Jake has narrowed his choices for schools to Columbia, Cornell, and Texas A&M. And he did share with us that eventually landing a gig as a rock and roll guitarist would be pretty cool!

Both Isabella and Jake will be graduating from Johnson High School and they expressed their appreciation of their musical director and school for providing them the ability to grow their talent, their love of music, and their ability to express themselves. And they send their love and thanks to their families, friends, classmates, and fellow musicians for the support given all these years.

Jake Troop Valdivia and Isabella Perez with their parents and SABS' Scott Mayo

As you can imagine, the committee was very impressed by what these students submitted. The materials were so well thought out, the performances so well executed. Evaluating their work was a joy. But the task of ranking them was difficult. To the applicants we say "Outstanding Job!" You represented the Sam Baird Scholarship in fine form. The bar remains high for those who will follow, thanks to you.

Again we want to express our appreciation to the applicants. The diversity of applicants and how they came to be applicants is proof that the word is getting out about the annual scholarship application. To those who helped make the Scholarship known, you helped us make a difference in these young people lives. You helped us with one of our main Missions in the Community as executors of the Sam Baird Scholarship. Finally, to the parents, brothers and sisters, all the kin and friends, teachers and tutors, and all who helped the applicants get their productions made and over to us - what a great team effort. 

KENS5 did a piece on our award winners on their "Kids That Make SA Great" segment. They cover Isabella and Jake winning the scholarship, both in text and video. Thank you  to KENS5 for producing and airing "Kids That Make SA Great" ... what a great way to hightlight local students excelling in music and academics ... our common task!

[click here to view video]