Love Missa Music Award supports student songwriters

Singers, songwriters and lovers of music alike gathered for Side B: Bronco Songwriting Collective, a two-day workshop hosted by Boise State's School of the Arts and Department of Music during the vibrant week of Treefort.

During the experience, aspirational students shared their talent and passion for the art form, celebrating Idaho's unique musical culture. In the workshop, they engaged in hands-on creative sessions, gained industry insights and had the chance to work with and learn from local musicians and members of the Idaho Songwriters Association.

The students ended the event by showcasing their work in Boise State's first student songwriting competition, where 10 talented finalists performed a live concert at the Centennial Amphitheatre. A diverse array of music filled the evening, fostering an environment of creative communication and connection. First place was awarded to Arie VanDenBerg, who received a four-hour professional recording session with Steve Fulton, accompanied by a $1,000 Love Missa Music Award.

The Love Missa Music Award is an endowed scholarship established in 2025 by Duane Paris to honor the passion for music and songwriting of his late partner, Melissa Brodt. Brodt was a musical enthusiast who dedicatedly supported the Idaho Songwriters Association and had a deep connection to - and infectious love for - the Idaho music community.

Funded in just one year by friends, family and the local music community, this scholarship is a love letter to the music community of tomorrow, ensuring students such as VanDenBerg are supported in finding their musical voices, excelling academically and reaching towards their dreams. Funding provides access to outstanding mentorship, a community to collaborate with other creatives and a stage for generations of musicians to share their work.

Endowed scholarships are a unique type of scholarship, often created in honor of people such as Brodt who committed their energy to a deep, personal cause. Unlike traditional scholarships, they are funded through earnings from the endowment principal, providing long-term support and the opportunity to honor an individual or initiative for generations.

Melissa Brodt's impact is felt within the music program, and thanks to the endowed scholarship, will impact student after student. To explore how you can make a similar impact, contact a development director at the Boise State University Foundation.

The Love Missa Music Award isn't just an award - it's a lasting legacy. It empowers students to find passion in music, just like Brodt did, and leave their mark on the music world.

By Kelli Perry, student communications specialist for the Boise State University Foundation

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