Through the Michael Hurd Fund for Young Musicians, the Festival assists young instrumentalists, singers and composers, many of whom go on to take part in the concerts.
Michael Hurd Fund for Young Musicians
Michael Hurd (1928–2006) was an internationally respected composer, author and broadcaster who lived near Petersfield and devoted much of his time and energy to music in the Petersfield area. The Michael Hurd Fund for Young Musicians was set up by Petersfield Musical Festival in 2007 with the aim of encouraging and assisting young musicians to create and perform music of all kinds.
What kind of activities does the Fund support?
Any special project to develop the skills and experience of young musicians, such as a contribution towards:
• the purchase of music, instruments or other equipment
• tuition fees for a series of lessons
• consultation lessons
• participation in workshops, master classes or residential courses
• auditions
Please note that the number of grants to support the Hampshire County Youth Orchestra’s courses is limited to two per annum.
Who can apply?
Applications to the fund can be made by musicians of 25 years and under, who live or attend school or college within the whole of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, or within 25 miles of Petersfield.
Application form
For more information about the fund, to make a donation, or to apply for a grant, please contact the Administrator or download a grant application form directly.
Further information and frequently asked questions
All individual applications need to be endorsed by a sponsor who has specific knowledge of the applicant’s musical experience and potential. So a music teacher, rather than a parent, would be better placed to act as sponsor.
Our Review Panel considers each application carefully, so the more information you can give when you apply, the better. Try to supply the costs involved, as well as the timescale, and what you hope to achieve from your project. Awards of between £50 and £250 (which is the maximum amount awarded to an individual) can be made, and you would need to provide some evidence of the cost.
You can apply at any time during the year as applications are considered quarterly by the Review Panel. Applicants may be asked for further information or invited to attend an interview or audition, and all candidates will be notified of the Panel’s decision. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified, but no correspondence will be entered into relating to the Panel’s decision.
Successful applicants are required to report back to the Panel following completion of their project and may be invited to perform during a Festival in the future.
Do you support applications from groups?
Yes we do! For example, we might support a group of small schools who are organising a choir festival together, or a school wishing to organise a specific music workshop.
Can I apply more than once to the Fund?
Yes you can. If unsuccessful, you may reapply the following year. If you’ve already received an award from the Fund, a second application to the fund will not be considered unless for a different purpose, and at least two years after the first application. A maximum of two applications from any one individual will be considered.
