INFORMATION FOR PARENTS ABOUT MUSIC AWARDS FOR 2008 / 2009

The deadline for application for September 2008 has now passed. Application packs for 2009/10 will be available from January 2009

What are the aims of the City music awards?

The aims are to:

• Support, nurture and develop children and young people with outstanding musical potential.
• Provide a package of support to meet the needs of each individual.
• Ensure that the widest possible range of musics are supported.
• Make most effective use of limited available resources.
• Be consistent and fair.

Why do music awards exist?
Most children learn a musical instrument in a small group.  This is a successful, cost effective method of teaching.  In Southampton, this tuition is heavily subsidised by the City and by schools and many children receive it free of charge.  However, some reach a stage of development where group tuition can no longer provide adequately for their needs. These youngsters need individual specialist tuition from a regional expert on the instrument.

What is a music award?

Each award holder receives:

• Fifteen hours of subsidised individual tuition per annum - for most pupils this will be 30 half-hour lessons.
• Access to specialist career advice.
• An annual report direct to parents about progress.
• Invitations to special events including performance workshops and masterclasses.
• Opportunities to attend concerts by leading professionals on their chosen instrument.
• A place in one of the City's leading ensembles (where appropriate).
• Free loan of a City instrument (where appropriate).

How do we apply for an award?

Parents apply on behalf of the pupil - please click here to download an application form.  A reference will be obtained from appropriate teachers and an audition arranged.  Awards are available for all types of musical instrument including the voice.  We particularly encourage applications from players of Double Bass, Viola, Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn Trombone and Sitar

What information do I have to give?

Applicants who believe that they qualify for an award greater than 20% City contribution will have to provide evidence of parental income and housing costs (rent or mortgage) per annum. 

What level of financial assistance can I expect towards a music award?

Each award is valued notionally at £30.90 per hour.  This is £463.50 per year.  If your family receives income support, housing or council tax benefit, you do not have to pay anything.  All other families make a contribution towards the cost of the award, based on parental income, numbers of dependent children and housing costs. 

For example, a couple with combined income of £42,000, 3 children and mortgage costs of £10,000 per year will receive 40% of the award free, therefore the parental contribution will be £278.10.  Where there is more than one Music Award holder in a family, then the contribution automatically is adjusted to the next band for both awards.  Please download document for more information.

How will the decision be reached regarding who receives an award?

Every youngster whose parents apply will be invited to attend an audition.  At this they will be asked to play a piece they have prepared on their main instrument / voice; play some scales; do some sight reading and will be asked a range of questions.  Unaccompanied performances are acceptable but candidates may bring an accompanist.  Other musical tests will be given