All Salem State Music Majors Awarded $1K Grants Through Major Donation

SALEM, MA — All Salem State University music majors were awarded a $1,000 grant as part of a $150,000 donation from the Murray Burnstine Charitable Trust.

The Trust donated the money to help provide SSU students financial support in their studies and access to essential equipment.

The grants are intended to help the students purchase instruments, microphones and other essential equipment.

Recipients will be recognized as “Burnstine Scholars” in honor of Murray Burnstine, a late musician and engineer.

"This gift will have transformational impact, opening new opportunities for our students, enriching their journey and strengthening the program for years to come," said Peter Kvetko, music and dance department chair at the university.

SSU senior Ava O'Brien said the grant gives her increased confidence that she can succeed in the program.

"This gift provides financial support that allows me to obtain resources I need to further my growth and education," she said. "I am filled with gratitude knowing that there are people who believe in and support young aspiring musicians and music educators like myself."

Burnstine was an accomplished saxophonist, clarinetist and flutist who balanced a distinguished career as a mechanical engineer with his lifelong devotion to music. His trust was established to ensure that young musicians would have the opportunity to pursue their passion regardless of financial circumstances.

"Murray believed that music should be within reach for any student with the desire to learn," said James Keane, trustee of the Murray Burnstine Charitable Trust.

"We're proud to continue his legacy through support for Salem State’s talented music majors,” added fellow trustee Alice Klein.