The 2025 Bradford Instrumental Music Scholarships were awarded to Felicity Cramer and Ethan Rochna.

Cramer is the daughter of Patrick and Rebekah Cramer. In addition to band, she was also a member of Key Club, Be Kind to Your Mind, Teen Book Club and National Honor Society. She plans to attend Slippery rock University to study music therapy. Cramer credits the instrumental music program with giving her the confidence to begin a career to help children with special needs through music. Rochna is the son of Jennifer and Bradley Rochna. Ethan’s involvement in band included All State Band and All State East Band festivals. Rochna said he hopes to inspire younger musicians and encourage them to perform with confidence in their skills, as the music program has inspired him to continue his journey at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in music performance. Rochna said he realized that with enough hard work and drive he could pursue a career in music.

The scholarships, developed in conjunction with the Bradford Public Schools Foundation in 2007, are awarded to recognize and reward students who have spent countless hours with the Bradford Instrumental Music Program. Students are selected through a competitive application process, which evaluates a variety of factors, including students’ contribution to the music program, leadership abilities and work ethic. It also takes into consideration grades, letters of recommendation and a student essay. A selection committee comprising individuals who are not currently involved with the band program evaluates the anonymous applications from students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the music program, enriching the school and community.

Although it is not necessary to continue in the field of music, the selection committee was encouraged that both of this year’s applicants are continuing in the music field of study in college.

“Congratulations to these exceptional students who are deserving of these awards,” representatives said in a press release.