2026 Scholarship Opportunity

If you know someone who has not been to one of our Area 8 festivals, but would benefit, take note. Thanks to the success of our Silent Auction the past two festivals, we once again will be offering TWO scholarships for Festival 2026.

Each scholarship recipient will receive:
One full registration to the Area 8 Biennial Festival, including the Director’s Seminar and included meals.

• A $400 lump sum reimbursement to assist with travel or/and lodging.
• A one-year membership to Handbell Musicians of America.

Applicants for this scholarship must be:
Someone that has the intent and desire to establish, revive, or help continue a handbell program. Applicants could be a handbell ringer, handbell director, or someone that appreciates handbells and has some big ideas.

• A first-time attendee of an Area 8 Festival.
• A resident of the five-state Area 8 region (Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri,
• Nebraska).
• Willing to write an article for Quavers following the 2026 Festival summarizing their Festival 2026 experience and sharing how what they learned will be put into practice.

More information and the application form will be made available after registration opens.