The Albert Goldsmith Memorial
Traditional Dance & Music Scholarship

The Country Dance & Song Society of Pittsburgh is proud to announce a traditional dance and music scholarship fund to honor the memory of Albert R. Goldsmith (1915-2008), a long-time dancer and patron of the arts.

Albert Goldsmith was a retired teacher of homebound children for the Pittsburgh Public Schools, a tireless volunteer and a perennial presence at city cultural events. Even in retirement, Albert continued to teach as a volunteer at the Children’s Institute and at Vintage Adult Day Care, actively maintained an interest in the arts, was a member of his church choir and served as an extra in independent movies. Albert earned a master’s degree in the philosophy of science from Harvard University, was a lifelong Unitarian, and was interested in every field of art, music, dance and intellectual achievement. He was an almost legendary attendee of art shows and openings, often appearing at several events in an evening. He also fostered at-risk teens, paying for their education, and bringing them to English country dances.

Albert was passionately interested in English country dance and morris dance, and often performed with CDSSP. Bare Necessities pianist Jacqueline Schwab, who grew up in Pittsburgh, credits him with encouraging her to join CDSSP as a teenager. The Albert Goldsmith Memorial Traditional Dance & Music Scholarship honors Albert’s memory by supporting both education and the arts. Through the Albert Goldsmith Memorial Traditional Dance & Music Scholarship, CDSSP periodically offers funds to support dancers, musicians and dance leaders to attend folk dance camps and workshops. It is expected that recipients of scholarships will share what they learn at these camps and workshops at CDSSP events in Pittsburgh. This could be accomplished by teaching new dances, introducing stylistic elements to our dancing, playing in our bands, giving a presentation, or serving on the Board of Directors. The Board encourages all interested parties to apply for one of these scholarships. Please note that some dance camps, such as Pinewoods, have their own scholarships. You should apply for these funds also.

Applicants must submit a letter to the CDSSP Board of Directors at least two months before the intended workshop or camp, specifying the time, location, and cost of the workshop or camp; the scholarship funds being requested; reasons for attending the event; and how the recipient will disseminate knowledge gained at the event at future CDSSP events. Applicants under consideration may be invited to attend a Board meeting to discuss questions the Board may have. The size of the award will be based on a number of factors, including relative need and benefit, and the number of applicants at any given time.

Letters should be addressed to:
Gaye Fifer, CDSSP President, gayefifer@gmail.com