Granting Financial Aid for Courses & Saturday Morning Music Centres

The Friends of Bedfordshire Youth Music exist to support the orchestral, band and choral groups organised by the Bedfordshire Music Trust and the music services of Central Bedfordshire and Bedford Borough (Inspiring Music and Music for Bedford Borough). One element of that support is to provide financial aid to families whose children otherwise would not be able to attend one of the holiday courses whether in-County or a tour.

What financial support is available?

The Friends will offer families up to 100% remission of fees where the family has children entitled to Free School Meals or whose household annual income is below £25,000, and support of 75%, 50% and 25% to other families up to a household income of £33,000. If more than one child then we will offer support of 75%, 50% and 25% up to a household income of £40,500. In exceptional circumstances we will support other children where there is an obvious need.

Who can apply?

Applications will be considered from any current student in County Bands, Orchestras, Choirs or other recognised County ensemble.

An application for assistance in attending one of the County's Saturday Morning Music Centres will be considered from any talented individual, or their parents.

When to apply

Applications for holiday courses to be made at least two weeks prior to the deadline dates published for courses run by the Bedfordshire Music Trust for consideration by the Grants sub-committee.

Applications must be made for each course as parental financial circumstances may change between courses.

How to apply

Application for financial aid should be made in writing on the appropriate form following the instructions provided on the appropriate form.

Proof of receipt of benefit will be needed on an annual basis. This will allow for changes in personal circumstances.

If you wish to apply for assistance, please complete and return the appropriate form listed below.

Any additional 'sponsorship' for a course must also be declared.

The decision of the Grants sub-committee will be final.

If you believe that you fulfill the above requirements, and wish to apply for a grant, then download an application form which should be completed and then sent to the address shown on each form.

• To download the Holiday Course Fee remission form, click here.
   
• To download the Music Centre Fee remission form, click here.

These forms are in PDF format which can be read with Adobe Acrobat Reader which is freely downloadable.