BERKELEY SPRINGS, West Va., March 30, 2009 – The Community Choir, Inc. today announced that local violinist James Worley has been named the first recipient of the organization’s George G. Rink Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship, established earlier this year by The Community Choir’s Board of Directors in memory of one of the Choir’s founding members, recognizes promising young local musicians ages 12 – 19 who are pursuing instrumental or vocal training, music theory, composition or conducting studies.

Community Choir Chairperson Doris Ashmore and former Chairperson Doris Rink made the scholarship presentation to 16 year-old James Worley during the Living Springs Chorale’s March 29 concert in Berkeley Springs.

“The Community Choir, Inc. is pleased to have this opportunity to recognize James for his musical talents and to assist him in his continued studies,” said Ashmore. “The George G. Rink Memorial Scholarship is made possible through the contributions of individuals and organizations – in Morgan County and beyond – that believe that musical and artistic training is essential to the development of lifelong skills that prepare young people for successful careers in the arts, education, and social services.”

James Worley, a home-schooled 11th grader, has studied the violin since the age of four and has performed during a number of Living Springs Chorale concerts. In addition to his instrumental performances, he sings with the Living Springs Chorale and will perform at the Chorale’s next concert on Sunday, April 5 at 3 p.m. at the Berkeley Springs Presbyterian Church on Mercer Street. James plans to use the scholarship award toward attendance at a music camp this summer.