Trusts

Trusts header image

Here is a list of various organisations who regularly support players with the purchase of an instrument or bow. They tend to be quite specific, so it is worth doing lots of research to find one that really fits your circumstances.

The Royal Philharmonic Society Sir John Barbirolli Memorial Foundation

Who is it open to: Students of UK Music Conservatoires or Colleges of Music. Priority is given to first year students and junior students who will shortly be embarking on full-time study.

Maximum amount: Grants do not usually exceed £4,000

How to apply: Application is made directly by College / Conservatoire Principals.

Website: https://royalphilharmonicsociety.org.uk/performers/instrumentalists/instrument-purchase

Awards for Young Musicians

Who is it open to: Upper age limit is 17 and applicants must be resident in the UK

Maximum amount: Up to £2,000

Website: https://www.a-y-m.org.uk

The Countess of Munster Musical Trust Instrument Purchase Loan

Who is it open to: Open to those who have received postgraduate study award from the Trust and have completed their studies.

Maximum amount: Interest-free loans repayable over 5-12 years

Website: https://www.munstertrust.org.uk/awards/funding-available/instrument-purchase-loan

The Humphrey Richardson Taylor Charitable Trust

Who is it open to: Music students and recent music graduates from Surrey or who those are linked to the Royal College of Music or the University of Surrey

Maximum amount: Not stated

How to apply: Applications can be submitted at any time. The Trust meets five times a year to consider applications.

Website: https://www.hrtaylortrust.org.uk

The Macfarlane Walker Trust

Who is it open to: Music students who can demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to those from Gloucestershire.

Maximum amount: Grants between £500 and £2,000

How to apply: Applications are considered throughout the year.

Website: http://www.unigrants.co.uk/music/macfarlane-walker-trust

EMI Music Sound Foundation

Who is it open to: Musicians in full time education

Maximum amount: Awards up to £2,000

Website: http://www.emimusicsoundfoundation.com

Loan Fund for Musical Instruments

Who is it open to: Loan scheme for professional players under 36.

How to apply: Loan requests of any amount considered, maximum repayment period is 5 years.

Website: http://www.lfmi.org.uk

Loan Fund for Musical Instruments (Grant scheme)

Who is it open to: The Grant Scheme from third year of full-time study until two years after graduation.

Maximum amount: Grant up to £5000.

How to apply: Applications considered three times a year.

Website: http://www.lfmi.org.uk