Professional Development Awards

These awards are generously supported by the Willis and Grace Grant Charitable Trust.

Who can we help

The Professional Development Awards are open to musicians of all ages and musical styles who have been in the profession for over 5 years. These Awards were created in order to help musicians explore new directions and deveop new projects.

Read the story of a Professional Development award recipient

How to apply

Step 1

Take a few minutes to read our Award Guidelines. These will give you a guide to the kinds of projects we can help with and the criteria by which we assess applications.

Step 2

Before completing an application form, please email a summary of the proposed project (up to 100 words) to inspire@helpmusicians.org.uk We will then let you know if we think we can help within a couple of weeks.

Step 3

If we encourage a formal application then please complete the Application Form below. With your application form please send us an up-to-date CV, any supporting materials relevant to your application and evidence of your earnings for the last financial year. This information will be used to assess your application. Please email these to inspire@helpmusicians.org.uk

We will also need a reference from a professional musician who is unconnected with the proposed project. The reference form can be downloaded and saved below. Your referee will need to return this form independently from their own email address. This should also be sent to inspire@helpmusicians.org.uk

Step 4

We will acknowledge your application by email. Your application will then be assessed by a panel. They will look at how the project will develop you musically, your background and how innovative and achievable the project is. We may invite you to an interview if we would like further detail.

Step 5

We will let you know within four weeks of the submission deadline whether we are able to help.

Please read the guidelines thoroughly before submitting an application

Professional Development Awards Guidelines

Professional Development Awards Aplication Form

Professional Development Awards Reference Form