Music Student Receives The Presser Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholar Award

Cesar Rangel Muñoz of Newport, Pa., a senior dual major in music education and music performance at Millersville University's Tell School of Music, is the recipient of The Presser Foundation's 2025-26 Undergraduate Scholar Award.

The Award is designed to encourage and support the education of a music student who has achieved a high level of musical and academic excellence, demonstrated leadership and service, and contributed to an inclusive community.

A native of Venezuela who came to the United States in 2015, he performs in University Choir, Chorale, Concert Band, Marching Band and Jazz Lab Band and serves as a recruitment ambassador, peer mentor and music tutor for the Tell School. Muñoz received the School's Glorious Sounds of the Season Scholarship each year since his sophomore year for academic achievement and artistic contribution.

He is involved in several campus organizations, including the National Association for Music Educators, Marauder Music, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and the American Choral Directors Association. He is a member of the Cygnus Society, the University's honors organization recognizing academic excellence and leadership.

Muñoz also founded Cesar & The Five with Patrick Boyer (drumset), Enzo Dreon (guitar and trumpet), Jude Bennett-Johnson (bass), Quinn Madden (piano) and Edrien Dingzon (auxiliary percussion). The group first performed through Music for Everyone's Music Fridays and are looking to expand to locations in central and southeastern Pennsylvania. They have an upcoming show at West Art in Lancaster on March 29.

"Through his inclusive spirit, artistic openness, and respect for others, Cesar embodies empathy, collaboration, and cultural awareness," says Dr. Micheál Houlahan, professor of music theory and aural skills and chair of the Tell School of Music.

The Presser Foundation, formed by music educator and publisher Theodore Presser, provides philanthropic support of music and serves a broad and diverse community of musicians, educators, and music lovers. To honor Mr. Presser's commitment to music education, The Presser Foundation supports undergraduate students across the country committed to advancing music through their studies.