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Applications for the 2023 Phyllis Taylor Scholarship are now closed. Please check back in March for information on 2024 scholarship opportunities.
In the meantime, you're welcome and encouraged to review this page to learn more about the scholarship, its eligibility criteria, and the application process. If you have any questions, reach out to the Community Foundation at 604-270-4483 or info@richmondfoundation.org.
“Phyllis was born Keyingham, York, England and immigrated to Kelowna very early in life. At the age of six, Phyllis began studying her life's passion, the piano. She excelled at various competitions throughout British Columbia. Critics expressed amazement at the abilities of the young female prodigy. Phyllis continued to develop as a first class pianist and played with several orchestras throughout North America and Great Britain at a time that the concert stage was dominated by male performers. Phyllis was well on her way when tragedy struck; her husband, Brenton passed away suddenly. Phyllis had to put her dreams aside and concentrate on developing a teaching practice as well as working as the musical director and organist at many churches over the years in order to survive. Phyllis took to teaching just as she had as a concert pianist. For many years and well into her late eighties, Phyllis taught many children from Richmond. Phyllis Taylor is fondly remembered by her many students some of whom have gone on to concert or teaching careers themselves. Phyllis Taylor was a lifetime member of the Richmond Music Teachers Association. Phyllis's final years were made more difficult by her poor health but she continued to have a quest for knowledge as she read books about the human and political conditions of our times and was always excited to discuss these topics with her visitors. Phyllis Taylor worried about the future and looked to the youth to speak out against wrongs of society and to play an active role in change. To this end, Phyllis Taylor has created a scholarship fund for students entering post secondary education. With the passing of Phyllis Taylor, it is important to acknowledge the vital role that she played in developing the minds and musical souls of Richmond's youth over the years. There can be no greater purpose in life. Phyllis Taylor shall be missed.”
Vancouver Sun | August 27, 2004
ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP
The Phyllis Taylor Scholarship is available to students who are furthering their education in the fields of music or performing arts. Scholarships up to the value of $5,000 may be awarded annually.
As stipulated by the terms directed by Phyllis Taylor in her will, scholarship applicants must:
• have attended at least one year previously, or be attending, an accredited post-secondary institution pursuing programs or coursework in the fields of music or performing arts;
• be, or have been, a resident of Richmond for a minimum of two years;
• be able to demonstrate significant musical or performing arts talent;
• be able to demonstrate community involvement, academic, and leadership skills; and
• be of British, Scottish, or Irish descent
Preference will be given to applicants pursuing post-graduate studies and to those who have a strong connection, and a history of commitment, to Richmond.
Please provide the following upon application:
• A letter of introduction outlining your reasons for applying for the scholarship and detailing your education and career to date
• Proof of post-secondary registration
• Two reference letters attesting to talent in music and/or performing arts
• Two reference letters attesting to community involvement, academic and leadership skills
• Historical documentation of current, or prior, Richmond residency of at least 2 (two) years duration
• Historical documentation of British, Scottish or Irish descent
Applications and supporting documents can be e-mailed to info@richmondfoundation.org, or mailed to the following address:
Richmond Community Foundation
190 - 7000 Minoru Blvd.
Richmond, BC V6Y 3Z5
If you have questions about the Phyllis Taylor Scholarship, or the eligibility criteria, please contact the Richmond Community Foundation at 604-270-4483 or info@richmondfoundation.org.
