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Music grants and funding

Talk to music professionals about making a living from music.

Our music community is growing and we want to encourage young new musicians. 

We intend to open our doors to school music students to talk to seasoned music professionals. Not all musicians become famous pop stars, although many of our artists have been session musicians for many famous groups. They can give a realistic insight to what it is like earning a living from music.

If you are interested get your school to contact us to arrange a visit.

There is funding available for learning to play a musical instrument in Thanet

Primarily aimed at children and young people through local, county-wide, and national schemes. 

1. Kent Music Financial Assistance (Local) https://www.kent-music.com/financial-assistance/

Kent Music offers significant funding for residents in Thanet and Kent, particularly for those on lower incomes or receiving benefits. 

  • What is covered: 75% of the cost of instrumental or vocal lessons, up to a maximum of £120 per term for up to three terms per academic year.
  • Instrument Loans: If you qualify for financial assistance, you may also be able to borrow a musical instrument from Kent Music's stock, free of charge, subject to availability.
  • Eligibility: Children in school year 3 or above, looked after children, young people leaving care, or families on low income/Universal Credit.
  • Action: Apply via the Kent Music website. Note: 2025-26 funding may be subject to waiting lists due to high demand. 

2. Thanet Music Centre (Affiliated to Kent Music ) 

The Performing Arts block at Charles Dickens School, Broadstairs Road, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2RL

Located in Thanet, this centre offers group sessions and individual lessons. 

  • First Half-Term Free: New group members can get the first half-term free for group sessions.
  • Subsidised Ensembles: Students receiving Financial Assistance for lessons are eligible for 75% off the cost of joining ensembles at the music centre. 

3. Kent and Medway Young Musicians Trust (Regional) https://www.kamymtrust.org/apply  Tel: 01622 395868.

This trust offers grants to young musicians up to the age of 25 who are "of limited means" and show promise. 

  • Use of Grants: Funds can be used for tuition fees, instrument purchases, courses, and music.
  • Criteria: Usually for those in households with a total income of less than £30,000, or those on free school meals/universal credit.
  • Action: Apply directly to the Trust. 

4. Youth-Specific & Targeted Support 

  • Pie Factory Music (Thanet): Provides free open-access youth club sessions for 8-17 year olds in Thanet, which includes music activities and significant support for those facing financial barriers.
  • Rocksteady Foundation: Offers free in-school music lessons and scholarships for disadvantaged children or those in challenging circumstances.
  • National Youth Arts Trust (NYAT): Provides means-tested music bursaries for lessons and instrument hire for young people. 

5. Other Opportunities

  • Take it Away: Offers interest-free loans for musical instruments, equipment, and software (up to £5,000).
  • School Pupil Premium: Many schools use their own Pupil Premium funds to help eligible pupils access music lessons. 

It is advised to apply early as some funds, such as the Kent Music Financial Assistance, operate on a, first-come-first-served basis.