Talented young musicians in Hartlepool are being urged to apply for grants of up to £1,000 to help take their musical ambitions to the next level.
The funding is available from the Preston Simpson and Sterndale Young Musicians’ Trust – an educational charity administered by Hartlepool Borough Council - to support instrumentalists and vocalists as they continue their musical studies and develop their skills.
The Trust makes financial awards to young musicians who live in or have strong links with Hartlepool to enable them to study music at any educational establishment providing courses in musical education.
The grants are designed to assist those students who have already achieved a good standard in their musical studies and who may wish to make use of their musical ability in their future careers.
The Trust makes annual awards of grants and also hosts an event in Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre during the summer at which the award winners are invited to perform – next year’s concert will be on Saturday 26 June.
To qualify to be considered for a grant, applicants must:
- be aged between 14 and 25 on 31 July in the year the award is made
- have been born in the borough of Hartlepool or have/have had 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: “The Preston Simpson and Sterndale Young Musicians’ Trust is proud to support talented young people as they develop their musical abilities and pursue their ambitions. Over the years, these grants have helped many aspiring musicians overcome financial barriers and make the most of exciting opportunities.
"This year alone, 25 young people received awards of up to £1,000, and I would encourage anyone who meets the criteria to apply. The funding can make a real difference to a young musician’s journey."
Councillor Rob Darby, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Housing, Growth and Communities Committee, said: "Hartlepool has a proud tradition of producing talented musicians, and the Preston Simpson and Sterndale Young Musicians’ Trust continues to play an important role in helping young people develop their potential.
"These grants provide valuable support at a crucial stage in a musician’s development, and I would strongly encourage eligible young people to seize this opportunity and apply."
Further information and the application form are available online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/PSST
The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Friday 11 December at 12 noon.