Photo of string instruments

PhD candidate wins scholarship from Early Music America

Early Music America named Allison Monroe the winner of its Barbara Thornton Memorial Scholarship.

Monroe is set to receive her Doctor in Musical Arts in Historical Performance Practice this year.

Early Music America gives the award to “an outstanding and highly motivated (and possibly unconventional) young performer of medieval music who seeks to widen his/her experience through more advanced study and/or auditions in Europe.”

The recipient is chosen by a jury of musicians who knew or worked with the great medieval music specialist and teacher, Barbara Thornton (1950-1998), who came to Europe from New York in 1970, filled with plans to study early music, and went on to co-found the medieval music ensemble Sequentia with Benjamin Bagby in 1977.

In selecting Monroe for the award, jurors cited her clearly stated project, her presentation, singing and playing with passion, mastery and depth of feeling, and dedication to her art.

Upon completing her PhD program, Monroe plans to study and travel in Europe, specifically to gain experience in the performance of medieval music.

Learn more about her award at earlymusicamerica.org/education/barbara-thornton-memorial-scholarship/.