This fellowship, a joint program between SFCM and the San Francisco Ballet, is for violinists, violists, cellists, and/or double bassists in SFCM's Professional Studies Certificate program whose personal and professional experiences contribute meaningfully to an expanded sense of diversity in the performing arts. When it originated in 2022, the Denis de Coteau Fellowship program was intended to advance opportunities for Black musicians in honor of Maestro de Coteau, longtime music director at the Ballet and faculty member at the Conservatory.

The fellowship provides tuition, housing at SFCM, and a stipend* provided by the SF Ballet that covers costs associated with the fellowship and payment for performances. Fellows play rehearsals and shows with the SF Ballet Orchestra and receive other training and support. In addition to practicing and performing with the ballet orchestra, each fellow will participate in chamber concerts, leadership training, and activities with local schools. They will be invited to mock auditions and will receive financial support for professional auditions. As part of the SFCM certificate program, each fellow will participate in advanced, focused studies that emphasize individual instruction and preparation for a performance career. While the fellowship covers tuition, some fees and meal plan costs do occur. There is no fee to apply.

(*Stipend includes payment for playing in orchestra, contribution to pension fund, covering union dues and travel costs, as well as SFB coaching, lessons, and mock audition fees, the total value in 2024 was more than $30,000.)