ANN ARBOR, MI — A drummer for a Grammy-winning band has teamed up with the University of Michigan to expand college affordability for incoming music students.

Chad Smith, drummer of Red Hot Chili Peppers, announced his charity the Chad Smith Foundation has partnered with the UM School of Music, Theatre & Dance to provide need-based financial support for an incoming music student starting in fall 2026.

Smith announced the new scholarship - named the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship in honor of his parent - during a surprise appearance at the university’s annual Band-O-Rama event on Sunday, Nov. 2.

“The University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance is honored to partner with the Chad Smith Foundation in creating this scholarship,” David Gier, dean and professor of music at the

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