The Acadiana Center for the Arts, the organization brings arts experiences to the people of Acadiana, has announced the recent awarding of funds to eight high school and college students across two programs.

The inaugural Courtney Granger Memorial Award was presented to three talented young musicians, aged between 12 to 18, who have shown immense promise in traditional music. Neva Garber, an accordionist, will be able to refine her skills at Louisiana Folk Roots. Meanwhile, sibling duo Brody and Zoey LaMaire will embark on private lessons to advance their guitar, singing, harmonica, and accordion proficiency.

The Courtney Granger Memorial Award holds special significance as it commemorates the legacy of the late Courtney Granger. Courtney’s father, Mr. Kenneth Granger, stated, “To quote the late Dewey Balfa, ‘A culture is preserved one generation at a time.’ At a young age Courtney truly understood the meaning of this quote…and lived it.”

Now in its fourth year, the Jean Breaux Award (JBA) continues to provide essential financial support to young artists eager to enhance their skills in various artistic disciplines, including performing arts, visual arts, dance, folklife, literary arts, media arts and music. This year, the JBA Committee recognized the talents of five recipients.

Anthony Voiers, the recipient of the Jean Breaux Award, has been accepted into the prestigious Chautauqua Opera Conservatory for the summer of 2023. With dreams of a competitive dance career, Lauren Fuselier will undertake private dance lessons to refine her craft. High schooler Tristan East is set to receive weekly classes with a graduate student of Dr. Wesley Bradford, the chair of composition at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Beth Harris will receive private instruction in Cajun and Creole musical genres, specifically fiddle, guitar, bass, and vocals. Lastly, Kelby McClinton is excited to participate in the American Dance Festival.

Visit the Acadiana Center for the Arts’ official website for more information.