Applications are now open for the Young Musicians’ Bursary Competition 2020. Supported by the Canterbury Festival Foundation, the competition is an opportunity for talented young musicians and vocalists to develop their practice, perform as part of the Festival programme and compete for an annual bursary of up to £2000 to be used for artistic development.

The Bursary Competition has grown in popularity every year since its inception in 2011, and each year, showcases the outstanding talent of Kent’s young musicians.

The competition exists to support excellence in talented young musicians across Kent, and has two categories. The Junior category offers professional performance experience for musicians aged 12-14, and the Senior musicians aged 15-18 are eligible to compete for a cash bursary of up to £2000 which they can put towards new instruments, tuition, courses or international trips. We also encourage applications from individuals aged under 25 with special educational needs. 

The winner, announced each year at the annual Bursary concert as part of the main Canterbury Festival programme, also becomes the Festival’s Ambassador for the Arts, developing skills through leading workshops alongside performing in various Festival events throughout the year.

Applications for the Young Musicians’ Bursary Competition 2020 are now open, the deadline for submission is Friday 15 May.

Successful shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend auditions taking place at Kent College on Monday 6 July, 4-7pm.

Click here to download the application pack

Please note that we are keeping up to date with Government guidelines and if people are unable to meet in person to audition, then we will be accepting video and online submissions.

For more information please contact [email protected]