NFMC Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal Award
Offered by National Federation of Music Clubs
About This Scholarship
The Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal Award is the National Federation of Music Clubs' prize for high school singers, awarding $1,500 for first place, $1,000 for second, and $500 for third to vocalists in grades 10 through 12. Most major voice competitions set age floors in the twenties because voices mature late, so a national award specifically for high school vocalists is rare.
Judging works through NFMC's recorded-audition system, so students compete from home rather than traveling to a live round. That, plus a modest entry fee, keeps the award within reach for choir students and private voice students alike.
Entrants must be under 19 at the deadline and hold NFMC junior membership through a federated teacher, junior club, or individual membership. Applications are due March 1 each year, with the requirements form posted on the NFMC Junior Division page.
Eligibility
- Vocalists in grades 10-12, under age 19 by the March 1 deadline
- NFMC Junior Division membership (federated junior club, federated teacher, or individual junior membership)
- Recorded vocal audition per the Martha Marcks Mack requirements form
How To Apply
- Confirm NFMC junior membership through your voice teacher or local federated club
- Download the Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal requirements form from the NFMC Junior Division awards page
- Record the required audition repertoire
- Submit the application, fee, and recording by March 1
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can enter the Martha Marcks Mack Junior Vocal Award?
Singers in grades 10 through 12 who are under 19 on March 1 and hold NFMC junior membership. First place pays $1,500, second $1,000, and third $500.
Is there a separate NFMC vocal award for college singers?
Yes. The NFMC Student/Collegiate Auditions include a voice category for ages 19 to 25, and the biennial Young Artist Competition serves vocalists 25 and older.