Buying your perfect musical partner can often be a major investment. The good news is that there are a number of organisations who might be able to help. We’ve listed a number of 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.
We do check all of the links provided fairly regularly but please do let us know if you find one that no longer works. Also, if you represent an organisation not listed here we would be delighted to add your details to the list!
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. Helen was a grateful recipient of this award during our time at the RCM.
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: http://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 £1,500
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/
Don’t forget, we also offer a part-exchange scheme and the opportunity to pay by instalments. We are always very keen to help and will offer as much support as possible throughout the process of finding the perfect instrument or bow.