Fourth-year cello student Karim Maggio will receive the $3,000 scholarship

The Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) recently announced that fourth-year cello student Karim Maggio is the recipient of its Presser Foundation Undergraduate Scholar Award for 2024. The award has been given annually for the past decade, and recognizes a high level of musical and academic excellence — as well as a commitment to the values of equity and inclusion.

Valued at $3,000, the award is presented by the Presser Foundation, a music education non-profit based in Philadelphia.

The citation praised Maggio's work as a member of the Canton Symphony Orchestra, as well as his participation in CIM's Advanced String Quartet seminar and his attendance at the 2023 Heifetz International Music Institute. Outside of playing the cello, Maggio is also an usher for The Cleveland Orchestra and is known for his sincere care for the orchestra's patrons.

"It is an honor to have been named a Presser Scholar," Maggio said. "I am eternally thankful to my fellow student leaders...for their help in serving our student body. This award will be a tremendous help in furthering my music education and career for years to come."

"Karim has demonstrated an incredible work ethic and character his entire time here," said Dr Melissa Kraut, Maggio's cello teacher. "His growth as a cellist has been monumental...and his kindness and attitude have been steady and impactful. He is fully deserving of this recognition."

"Karim embodies just what we mean when we say CIM trains the future of classical music," said Scott Harrison, CIM’s Executive Vice President & Provost. "We’re glad Presser saw in him what we do — as an artist, scholar, and champion for positive change — and we’re proud to celebrate his accomplishment."