A helping hand for Hartlepool’s young musicians

The money is available from the Preston Simpson and Sterndale Young Musicians Trust – an educational charity administered by Hartlepool Borough Council.

The Trust makes financial awards of varying amounts to young musicians, both instrumental and vocal, to enable them to study music at any educational establishment providing courses in musical education.

To qualify to be considered for a grant, applicants must:

• have been aged between 14 and 25 on 31 July 2017

and

• have been born in the borough of Hartlepool or have a parent who has lived in the borough for not less than five years.

They should also be able to show a keen interest in music and have an above average musical talent indicated by:

• a minimum standard of Grade V in the Associated Board Examination or an equivalent qualification from Trinity College London.

and

• membership of bands and orchestras, or
• evidence of participation in musical concerts, or
• a genuine intention of pursuing a musical career, including at this stage a commitment to GCSE Music.

Chris Simmons, Chair of the Trust, said: “Over the years the grants have played an important part in helping many talented young people in Hartlepool to overcome financial hurdles in the pursuit of their musical careers.

“Grants are given to young people in varying amounts of up to £1,000, so they are well worth applying for.”

Further information and the application form are available online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/youngmusicianstrust

Alternatively, contact Carolyn Dale at Hartlepool Borough Council on (01429) 523754 or e-mail carolyn.dale@hartlepool.gov.uk

Completed application forms must be returned to the Council by Wednesday 13 December.