2026 KJ James Memorial Scholarship Winners Announced

2026 Beginnings Credit Union KJ James Memorial Scholarship Winners Announced

The New York State Blues Festival is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Beginnings Credit Union KJ James Memorial Scholarship, presented annually to outstanding young musicians from across New York State. The scholarship honors the legacy of Kelly “KJ” James, widely regarded as the father of the Syracuse blues scene, while encouraging the next generation of artists to pursue their musical passions.

The 2026 scholarship competition attracted talented applicants from around the state, making this year’s selection process especially competitive. Scholarships were awarded to three students who demonstrated exceptional musicianship, creativity, dedication, and commitment to their craft.

2026 Scholarship Winners:

First Place – Ian Zawrotny
Senior, Haverling High School
Ian Zawrotny earned First Place honors in the 2026 competition. His impressive musical abilities, artistic expression, and dedication to continued growth as a performer distinguished him among this year’s applicants.

Second Place – Anthony Vazquez
Junior, Liverpool High School
Anthony Vazquez was awarded Second Place for his strong musicianship and evident passion for music. His performance demonstrated both technical proficiency and a mature understanding of musical expression.

Third Place – Max Nolan
Junior, West Genesee High School
Max Nolan received Third Place recognition for his commitment to developing his talents and his promising future as a young musician. His application reflected both skill and enthusiasm for continued musical exploration.

The awards were presented during the 2026 New York State Blues Festival at Chevy Court on the New York State Fairgrounds. Participating in the onstage presentation were Katie Foley, Vice President of Marketing & Service Excellence at Beginnings Credit Union; Carol Hogan, widow of KJ James; New York State Blues Festival Board President Allison Schad; and New York State Blues Festival Executive Director Eric McElveen. Family members, supporters, and festival attendees joined in celebrating the accomplishments of this year’s scholarship recipients.

The New York State Blues Festival extends its sincere congratulations to Ian, Anthony, and Max for their achievements and thanks Beginnings Credit Union for its continued commitment to supporting music education and young artists throughout New York State.

The Beginnings Credit Union KJ James Memorial Scholarship is a cornerstone of the Festival’s youth initiatives, alongside the JJ Lane Construction Blues In The Schools program and Blues Ignition, the Festival’s student performance ensemble supported by Gibson Gives. Together, these programs help fulfill the organization’s mission to preserve, protect, and promote blues music and culture while investing in the next generation of musicians.