Marv atchley memorial fund

The Marv Atchley Memorial Fund was formed by the St. Helena Choral Society (SHCS) and the Saint Helena Community Band (SHCB) in the Spring of 2022 to honor the memory of Francis Marvin Atchley, who was a beloved vocalist and instrumentalist in these organizations since their inceptions in 1979 and 2007, respectively. In addition to his musical talents, Marv was known for his generous volunteerism in building sets, transporting instruments, setting up and tearing down stages for each performance.

The Fund was set up to provide money to local youth – ages 10 to 18 – who need financial help to further their exploration and progress in vocal or instrumental studies. (This is the age group where growth in music occurs, but is also most at risk to be disrupted by unexpected circumstances.) So we are here to provide financial support to keep a student on their musical path. Examples of support are private lessons, attending music camp, buying equipment or supplies, or even just fixing a broken instrument.

Recommendations for applicants are provided by music teachers in the local schools or private music instructors in Napa County. The Fund’s five-member Board reviews the applications and interviews each eligible applicant to decide on awards.

The Fund has made awards to four high school students: three to attend a music education seminar in southern California this spring and one to attend music camp in northern California this coming summer.

The Fund was seeded by two (2) $5,000 donations from the founding organizations, along with donations made by individual choir and band members. We are currently seeking both funding sources and student applicants. Contact us at marvatchleymf@gmail.com.

Applicants may complete an online application HERE >>