It’s a startling fact that many music students are embarking on their professional training without an instrument worthy of their talents. Too often students are held back by the limitations of their instruments, hugely impacting their progress. 

Each year, we provide RPS Instrument Purchase Grants to young musicians who have succeeded in attaining a place at music college but don’t own an adequate instrument. Unlike many schemes, this is not a loan: it’s a grant that we do not expect to be repaid, recognising the many financial challenges that young musicians face. We established this support some decades ago thanks to the Sir John Barbirolli Memorial Foundation, established in tribute to the renowned conductor and RPS Gold Medal recipient. Today, they continue with generous support from The Parnell Trust, in memory of Alan Charles Parnell, and from the 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust, Andor Charitable Trust, Hobson Charity, Thistle Charitable Trust, Thriplow Charitable Trust, and RPS Members.

This year’s recipients are as follows. Click on each name to find out more about their musical progress and how the RPS is helping them.

Ash Briggs flute 
Asha Kroll clarinet
Charlie Gibson violin
Daniel Antat congas
Emily Hill cello
Esther Kallow cor anglais
Grayson Fleming snare drum
Isla Gordon tenor saxophone
Kyran Russell electro acoustic guitar
Leo Pollitt tuba
Louise Turnbull violin bow
Olta Luli flute
Riana Tam viola bow
Sacha Neugarten double bass
Serena Williams tenor horn
Shesh Abu-Jabir tambourine
Tristan Jacobs double bass
Tristan Ng alto saxophone
Yuval Avni tuba 

Applications for these grants are – in accordance with the original wishes of the Barbirolli Foundation – for first-year undergraduates and coordinated with each of the UK classical music colleges / conservatoires. Further information about the grants and eligibility to apply can be found on our website here.