The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is accepting applications for the Clifton Chenier Memorial Scholarship, an initiative that honors the legacy of the King of Zydeco by helping a new generation of musicians carry his music forward.
Established in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Chenier’s birth, the scholarship provides financial assistance to UL Lafayette students interested in studying zydeco accordion through the University’s Traditional Music Program.
The scholarship was established by Valcour Records in collaboration with C.J. Chenier and the Chenier family estate. It is supported by proceeds from A Tribute to the King of Zydeco, a Valcour Records release that won the 2026 Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album, along with contributions from community organizations and other supporters.
Scholarship eligibility and applications
The Clifton Chenier Memorial Scholarship is open to full-time UL Lafayette students in any major and at any class level who have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. It covers tuition for two credit hours of individual zydeco accordion instruction per semester for two semesters.
“One of the most exciting things about this scholarship is that students don’t need to be experienced accordion players to apply,” said Dr. Gwendolen von Einsiedel, associate professor and holder of the Dr. Tommy Comeaux Endowed Chair in Traditional Music at UL Lafayette. “We’re looking for students who are curious about zydeco, passionate about Louisiana’s musical traditions and eager to learn. This is an opportunity to study the music in the place where it was born and to become part of its continuing story.”
Applicants must submit a three- to five-minute video that includes a brief introduction explaining their interest in studying zydeco accordion, why the scholarship is meaningful to them and any previous musical experience. The video must also include a performance of a traditional music selection on any instrument.
Videos may be uploaded as unlisted YouTube videos or shared through Vimeo or Google Drive. Applicants should email a link to tradmusic@louisiana.edu.
Applications are due Dec. 18, 2026. The scholarship will be awarded for the spring 2027 semester.
A Grammy-winning tribute
A Tribute to the King of Zydeco brings together internationally renowned artists and musicians from South Louisiana, reflecting the influence of Chenier’s music far beyond the region.
The Rolling Stones open the album with “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés,” featuring Louisiana accordionist Steve Riley. Other collaborations include Lucinda Williams with Tommy McLain and Steve Earle with Anthony Dopsie.
Chenier, a native of Opelousas, Louisiana, transformed the sound of southwest Louisiana by blending traditional Creole music with blues, rhythm and blues and other influences. He is widely regarded as the father of modern zydeco.
“Clifton Chenier changed the course of Louisiana music, and his influence continues to reach musicians around the world,” said Joel Savoy, founder of Valcour Records and one of the album’s co-producers. “This album was about celebrating that legacy, but we also wanted it to have a lasting impact. Through this scholarship, we’re helping put the accordion in the hands of the next generation of musicians.”
Photo caption: Opelousas native Clifton Chenier is widely regarded as the father of modern zydeco. His influence on American music has been likened to that of Louis Armstrong, Bill Monroe and Robert Johnson. (Photo courtesy of Johnnie Allan, The Center for Louisiana Studies, and Special Collections, UL Lafayette)