New scholarship supports graduate students in organ performance

For their entire lives, Laura Bartlett’s parents loved classical music, especially organ music.

“Music activities brought them together as young people,” Bartlett said.

And now their legacy will include the gift of music, thanks to a scholarship in their honor.

In memory of Douglas M. Bartlett, who died last year, and Susan B. Bartlett, who died in 2014, the Bartlett-Armstrong Family Scholarship was established to help talented graduate music students pursue their education and careers in organ performance in the School of Music in Arizona State University’s Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

The couple lived in Arizona for more than a decade. Susan Bartlett played the cello when she was younger, and Douglas Bartlett played the piano and the organ in their church. Few things brought them greater joy than attending symphonies, operas and concerts, according to their daughter.

“Creating a scholarship will allow my family to see firsthand how our philanthropy makes a difference as we will have the opportunity to develop relationships with the students and witness their growth and artistry both on campus and in community concerts," said Laura Bartlett.

She said she hopes the scholarship support will enhance world-renowned organist and School of Music Professor Kimberly Marshall’s ability to attract and retain the most talented students, many of whom remain in the Valley and add significantly to the cultural vitality of the region.

“This scholarship is a tribute to the fine work being done by ASU organists to enrich the cultural life of the Valley,” Marshall said. “Thanks to the Bartlett-Armstrong family for supporting the advanced studies of these gifted musicians.”

The scholarship will fund its first student in 2019. 

Learn more about supporting students in ASU’s Herberger Institute.