The Javier Niño Memorial Scholarship at Austin Classical Guitar exists to honor the memory of a wonderful young man who brought joy through beauty and kindness to countless people during his lifetime, and to support young classical guitarists in Austin, Texas — through scholarship lessons and other means — who show great promise and who will benefit from access to expert instruction and mentorship. For the 2024-25 school year, after reviewing applications from many talented student musicians across Austin ISD, two stood out. We are proud to award scholarships to both of these deserving young artists.
Life is full of untapped possibilities—the chance to grow, to heal, to create, and to leave a meaningful mark. At ACG, we see this every day in the students who walk through our doors, each carrying unique promise. With every new school year, young people arrive ready to explore their potential, and we have the privilege of watching that potential transform into something vibrant, dynamic, and alive. It’s a breathtaking process, and it reminds us of the power and beauty in every student’s journey.
This year, we had the extraordinary honor of awarding the Javier Niño Scholarship to two remarkable young adults: Joshua Garcia from Crockett High School and Xavier Briones from East Austin College Prep.
These scholarships recognize students who embody creativity, a commitment to making an impact, and a deep sense of humanity.
After sitting down with Joshua and Xavier alongside our Education Associate, Rey Rodriguez, we were struck by their self-awareness and the profound ways they’ve embraced their potential—not just for personal growth, but for service to their communities.
Both Xavier and Joshua began their musical journeys in middle school guitar programs, unsure of where the path would lead. It didn’t take long for them to discover the profound opportunities music offered. For Joshua, music became a way to share his art and touch others’ lives. As he put it:
“Music reassures me that I can make a difference—it’s a connection to people.”
Xavier sees music as a beacon for a brighter future, not only for himself but for those around him. He dreams of guiding others toward their own passions and using music as a tool for healing. His words were deeply moving:
“I want to help people get back on their feet. My purpose is to help those who never had the opportunities I’ve had, just like me.”
What struck Rey and me most during our conversation was their maturity and understanding of the power they wield as musicians. Both Joshua and Xavier recognize their potential to harness music’s transformative power—to ignite passion in others, to foster deep connections, and to help people process and express their emotions in a positive way.
Xavier expressed this beautifully when he said:
“If you’re sad and just need to let out your emotions, music can help. Once you release those emotions, you’ll feel free, at peace, and relaxed.”
As we celebrate Joshua and Xavier’s achievements, we’re inspired by the paths they’re carving for themselves and others. Xavier, a senior, is applying to college to study Music Therapy and Music Education, with hopes of continuing his mission to serve and heal through music. Joshua, a junior, is working hard to build a career as a performer, using his talents to connect and inspire.
We are thrilled to see where their journeys lead and grateful for the chance to witness their potential in action. Through their art and their service, Joshua and Xavier remind us of the extraordinary impact music can have, and the incredible potential in every student we encounter.