November 23, 2025 – The Rockit Live Foundation is thrilled to announce that David Bastien has been named the recipient of the highly coveted 2026 Gibson Lou Pallo Scholarship!
David is a new face in the program, having just joined the Rockit Academy as of September 2025. “His selection is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication,” says Rockit Executive Director, Bruce Gallipani. The process for earning the scholarship is rigorous, including essay submissions and a live audition. The final selection is made by Gibson Gives—the philanthropic division of Gibson, the iconic instrument brand– which is committed to making the world a better place by supporting nonprofit organizations and developing programs that advance musicians through music education as well as health and wellness initiatives worldwide.
This honor is profoundly meaningful to David, who has quickly embraced the supportive and professional environment of the academy. Upon reflecting on the program, David said, “I finally found a place where I belong. I felt ignored at other music schools.”
David is the fourth recipient of this distinguished scholarship, and tradition includes a moment of truth where the musician is handed their brand new Gibson guitar and immediately performs in front of a full crowd. Upon receiving the stunning instrument, a shocked David thought to himself, “A Gibson guitar at 15?! Are you crazy?”
David upheld this electrifying custom, debuting his new Les Paul at Asbury Lanes with a seamless performance that captivated the audience. This tradition perfectly demonstrates the high caliber and preparedness of Rockit Academy musicians.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to learn and perform in a dedicated setting, David added, “I feel like I’m dreaming. I want to play professionally and everything about Rockit is professional. All the kids have a similar mindset.”
This major achievement is made possible through a vital partnership with Gibson Gives. The scholarship provides David with an incredible package to support his musical journey: a stunning Gibson Les Paul Modern Figured guitar in Cherry Burst and one year’s enrollment in Rockit Academy in the form of a $5,000 cash grant paid directly to Rockit Live Foundation to offset tuition.
“Through our partnership with the Rockit Live Foundation, Gibson Gives is proud to honor Lou Pallo’s enduring legacy while helping ensure that passionate, dedicated students can pursue their musical dreams, regardless of financial barriers,” says Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director at Gibson Gives. “His spirit lives on in every young artist whose life is changed through this opportunity.”
The academy experience includes private guitar instruction, professional band rehearsals, and invaluable opportunities for live performances.
The scholarship is a tribute to the late, great guitarist Lou Pallo, who was a dear friend and guiding mentor to Rockit Academy students and anchored the Les Paul Trio for decades. Through the Gibson Gives partnership, the Rockit Live Foundation is able to honor Pallo’s legacy while furthering its core mission to help develop and inspire passionate young musicians regardless of their financial background.
About Gibson Gives:
For over 130 years, the iconic and leading American instrument brand Gibson has been shaping sound across generations and genres. Gibson, and its charitable non-profit division Gibson Gives, believe in the power of music and that getting instruments into the hands of those with a desire to make music is a life-changing event. Gibson Gives–a 501(c)(3), is committed to making the world a better place by supporting non-profit organizations and developing programs in our efforts to advance musicians through music education, and health and wellness initiatives worldwide. 100% of all donations to and from Gibson Gives go towards giving the gift of music. In the last five years, Gibson Gives has raised over $5.5 million and enabled $52.5 million in funding for key organizations through product donations and meaningful giving worldwide. For more information, visit: www.gibsongives.org.
