National Youth Arts Trust — Music bursaries

National Youth Arts Trust's music bursaries pay for private instrumental lessons or singing tuition for young people who couldn't otherwise afford them, and the money can stretch to cover related costs like an instrument, equipment, or the travel needed to get to lessons. It's open to 12- to 25-year-olds who have lived in the UK for more than three years, come from a household receiving free school meals or state benefits, or who can show other genuinely exceptional financial circumstances, and can demonstrate real musical ability and commitment to keep practicing. A bursary is worth up to £1,000, typically enough to fund a year of part-time lessons, paid as a grant rather than a loan. Applying means putting together proof of UK residency such as a utility bill, a letter of recommendation from a music teacher or similar referee, evidence of financial need, and the name and address of the music school or teacher you'll study with; academic records and an optional short video of your playing can strengthen the case, along with a personal statement on what the bursary would let you do. Trustees meet quarterly, in April, July, September, and November, to decide, with results usually taking six to eight weeks and sometimes longer. The next deadline is November 4, 2026.