Financial Assistance - Development Team

The Development Team oversees two schemes supported by longstanding funders of the RNCM to provide interest free loans and grant funding support towards the purchase of instruments for students who would otherwise struggle to meet these costs.

Wolfson Instrument Fund

The Wolfson Instrument Fund provides support towards the purchase of instruments in the School of Wind, Brass and Percussion (SWBP) and School of Strings (SS). Awards are primarily intended for students progressing into the third year of the BMus programme and are considered on the basis of both musical potential and financial need. Funding may be awarded on a full or partial basis, with students meeting any remaining costs where appropriate. Instruments purchased through the scheme may be new or second-hand, although antique instruments are not eligible.

Nominations for the Wolfson Instrument Fund are made annually through Heads of Schools, who each year are invited to put forward eligible students. The Development Team then submits nominations to the Wolfson Foundation for consideration, typically during the Autumn term. Funding decisions are made following the Foundation’s review and approval process.

The Oglesby Charitable Trust Instrument Loan Scheme

The Oglesby Charitable Trust Instrument Loan Scheme offers interest-free loans to postgraduate students who need financial assistance to purchase their own instrument. The scheme is intended for situations where the cost of an instrument represents a significant financial commitment and enables students to spread repayments over an extended period, typically up to five years.

Students who would like to discuss whether the scheme may be suitable for their circumstances should contact their Head of School in the first instance. Applications are reviewed by the Development Team and, where appropriate, a case for support is prepared for consideration by the Oglesby Charitable Trust. Students may be asked to provide a personal statement, details of the instrument they wish to purchase and a supporting tutor reference as part of the application process.