Klamath Music Announces 2026 Glenn Justus Memorial Scholarships
Two $2,000 scholarships will support local students pursuing music education
KLAMATH FALLS — Klamath Music has announced the launch of the 2026 Glenn Justus Memorial Scholarship, a program designed to support and encourage aspiring musicians across the Klamath Basin while honoring the legacy of a longtime advocate for the local music community.
Applications are now open, with a submission deadline of Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Two scholarships totaling $2,000 each will be awarded this year.
The scholarships are named in honor of Glenn Justus, remembered by many as a mentor, teacher, and steady presence in the region’s music scene. Organizers say the program is intended to carry forward his lifelong commitment to encouraging creativity and supporting young artists.
The scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors living in Klamath County, including students attending public, private, charter, or homeschool programs. Former Klamath County high school graduates currently enrolled in higher education are also eligible, along with current students at Oregon Institute of Technology and Klamath Community College.
Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate active and measurable involvement in music. Applications are submitted online.
Scholarship recipients will be recognized on April 2, 2026, during the intermission of the “Under Klamath Skies” program at the Klamath County Museum, scheduled between 6 and 8 p.m. Awardees will be acknowledged through a photo and or brief presentation video alongside a representative from Klamath Music. Applicants are encouraged to keep the evening available, with notifications expected in the days leading up to the event.
Klamath Music officials say the scholarship reflects the values Glenn Justus embodied throughout his life. Raised by a coal miner father and a musician mother, Justus was largely self-taught, learning music by ear and eventually becoming a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. In addition to performing, he crafted musical instruments, many of which he gave away freely.
Community members remember Justus for his generosity, encouragement, and quiet guidance, often serving as a mentor, peacemaker, and father figure to musicians of all ages. Organizers say his influence continues to shape the local music community long after his passing.
Klamath Music is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening the region’s musical culture through concerts, workshops, youth programs, and community partnerships. The organization works to expand access to music education and performance opportunities throughout the Klamath Basin.
Students interested in applying for the Glenn Justus Memorial Scholarship can find more information through Klamath Music.
Images: Klamath Music
