Apply now for our Young Musician Grants
Closing date 20 December 2026
As music teachers ourselves, we know how learning an instrument can develop creativity, self-confidence and resilience, as well as bring real joy. It can open up opportunities, build friendships and provide a source of enjoyment for life.
But learning music takes commitment, and the cost of lessons, instruments and equipment can be a real barrier.
That's why we use proceeds from Rockhampton Festival to help young people access music tuition. Our grants provide practical financial support to committed young musicians and their families, helping more young people enjoy the benefits of making music.
Since the scheme began, we've awarded nearly £10,000 in grants, helping over 50 local young people access music tuition, equipment so they can develop and enjoy their music.
By coming to our festival, you make this possible.
What can our grant help with?
£250
Maximum grant
50%
of eligible costs for:
Music tuition,
Group music activities, such as attending a music centre or band,
Musical instrument purchase or rental,
Equipment, books or materials.
You can apply as a student, as a parent or carer, or as a teacher or organisation that supports young people learning music
We invite applications once a year, usually in the autumn following the festival.
How we decide
The difference a grant would make to you
Our funds are limited and we get more applications than we can support, so we have to prioritise.
These are the main things we will look for in your application:
Your commitment to music
This is the most important bit.
Tell us how our grant would benefit you personally, for example is cost a barrier to you?
Inspire us! Tell us why you are committed to learning music, what you have done so far and what you hope to achieve.
Where you live
We prioritise applications from our local area so that local people benefit from the proceeds from our local festival.
How the funding works
We'll explain exactly how the funding will work for you when we confirm your grant and we'll take into account your individual circumstances.
Usually, for music tuition, we'll pay your teacher or tuition provider directly once the agreed series of lessons has been completed and they've confirmed that the lessons took place. We'll pay up to 50% of the cost, up to the grant limit we agreed, and you'll be responsible for covering the balance.
For instruments and equipment, we usually ask you to make the purchases, provide us with receipts and then we will reimburse you up to 50% of the cost, up to the grant limit we agreed. If you need a different approach, talk to us.
It makes a difference
"Your funding has taken a massive pressure off. The children have been putting extra effort into practice and are achieving the praise of their teachers. Music is an amazing outlet for creativity, emotion, communication and joy. It’s so wonderful to hear a child’s skills developing."
Philippa
“Thank you so much for your contribution towards my son’s tuition. He has developed in skill and confidence so much that he is now hoping to do music at A level."
Freya
"Your grants have helped us support students in need of financial assistance so that money isn't a barrier to learning music. We're incredibly grateful."
Thornbury Area Youth Music
"I’m incredibly grateful. I deliver inclusive music sessions to special needs, youth provision and early years groups. This has had a powerful impact. Previously disengaged young people have found a joyful way in to music, building confidence and curiosity."
Kitty
Applying is simple
We know that applying for funding can sometimes feel daunting, so we've kept things very straightforward. Our online application form is short and easy to complete.
You'll receive an email confirmation straight away that we've got your application, and we'll let everyone know the outcome shortly after the closing date.
If your application isn't successful, we'll explain why and provide helpful feedback.
Applications close on 20 December 2026.