Bursary benefit for trad musician

SIX months from now, the winner of a new £2,500 bursary to support young Scottish traditional musicians will be unveiled, coinciding with St Andrew’s Day.

Set up through a partnership between the Saltire Society, an independent charity, and Hands Up for Trad, an organisation set up in 2002 to promote Scottish traditional music, the new bursary is now open for applications.

The launch coincides with the Saltire Society’s 80th anniversary celebrations and is part of a busy programme of special events and awards planned throughout the year. The winner of the award will be announced at a Saltire Celebrates event at the Òran Mòr music venue in Glasgow on November 30.

From delivering a teaching programme to booking a smallscale tour, the funding will enable the winner to take part in an activity and learn new skills that will enable them to grow as a musician. It will also allow them to strengthen the planning skills and procedures they will need to be able to pursue a successful career in traditional music.

The £2,500 prize will be paid out in instalments to enable the winner to pursue their chosen project. The winner will also receive a special certificate as well as complimentary one-year membership of the Saltire So- ciety. They will be expected to record their experiences visually via a dedicated website and will be encouraged to provide regular updates on their progress through social media.

To be considered for the bursary, applicants should submit a project proposal by Friday, August 26, using the online application form on the Hands Up for Trad website. Their application should include a detailed description of the project they would undertake and how this opportunity would enhance their musical career.

Further information is available by contacting Simon Thoumire at info@handsupfortrad.scot.