2025 Music Grant Application

Music Grant Applications for 2025

Open to young performing artists
from Australia and New Zealand

How to Apply for Tait Memorial Trust Awards

To be considered for an award from the Tait Memorial Trust, please ensure that you meet the following eligibility requirements:

Eligibility

  1. Citizenship/Residency:
    Applicants must be citizens of Australia or New Zealand or currently reside/domicile in one of these countries.
  2. Age Limit:
    Singers, musicians, conductors, and composers must be under 35 years old as of 30 September 2025.

Application Preparation

Before starting your online application, please gather the following documents and materials:

  1. Recordings:
    • Provide at least two recordings with a combined duration of 30 minutes or more.
    • Recordings should be uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo (ensure the videos are not private).
    • All recordings must have been made within 12 months prior to the final application deadline (Friday, 7 March 2025).
  2. Proof of Identity:
    • Submit a scanned copy or photograph of your passport or another official document that confirms your age, nationality, and residency.
  3. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
    • Prepare a detailed CV that includes your education, training, performance history, and any other relevant experience.
  4. Biography:
    • Write a concise biography highlighting your artistic journey, notable achievements, and career aspirations.
  5. Cover Letter:
    • Outline your proposed course of study, the institution you plan to attend, and the teacher or mentor you intend to work with.
    • Explain why this opportunity is essential for your artistic and professional growth.
  6. References for Music Awards:
    • Obtain two written references from recognised musicians or artists.
    • Clearly label all submitted files (e.g., Biography, YouTube Link, etc.).

Submission and Award Disbursement

  • Most awards are paid directly to the educational institution or approved service provider.
  • Payments are made in Pounds Sterling and require a UK bank account.
  • Award recipients will be invited to perform in a concert for the Trust during the 2025/26 UK academic year, without a performance fee.

Audition Recording Guidelines

  • Submit high-quality video audition files (audio files are acceptable for composers).
  • Ensure the recording environment is appropriate for your instrument or voice.
  • Select repertoire that showcases your abilities across a variety of styles and periods.

Specific Application Guidelines

  1. Composers:
    • Use the standard online form.
    • Provide links to audio files (e.g., via SoundCloud or Dropbox) and PDFs of scores.
    • If available, include video links (YouTube/Vimeo) of performances of your compositions.
  2. Repetiteurs:
    • Submit videos of two contrasting opera ensemble scenes in different languages (8–10 minutes each).
    • Include a recording of one opera aria accompanied by a singer, with all recordings totalling at least 30 minutes.
    • A live audition may be arranged at the judges’ discretion.
  3. Accompanists:
    • Provide three to four videos of yourself accompanying singers or instrumentalists in a variety of styles and works.
  4. Musical Theatre Performers:
    • Follow the Associated Studios’ current application guidelines.
  5. Organists:
    • If capturing high-quality sound is challenging, you may submit audio files instead of videos.
    • Share video links as ‘unlisted’ uploads on YouTube.
    • In some cases, a live audition may be arranged.
  6. Jazz Musicians:
    • Submit at least 30 minutes of video recordings, including:
      • Two standards (with rhythm section).
      • One 32-bar original transcription.
      • One jazz blues piece in F, B-flat, A-flat, or E-flat.
    • References must come from recognised jazz professionals.

References

  • Include the names of at least two distinguished referees in your field.
  • Written references must be no older than six months from the application date.
  • References can be uploaded directly with your application or emailed by the referees to Tait Administrator James Hancock.

Enquiries

For detailed video guidelines and additional information, consult the application form.
For further enquiries, please contact the Tait Memorial Trust at INFO@TAITMEMORIALTRUST.ORG.