Music Performance Funding Opportunities in South Africa
About Fine Music Radio (FMR)
Fine Music Radio (FMR) is a Cape Town-based community radio station focused on classical and jazz music programming. The station is known for promoting quality music broadcasting, cultural initiatives, and music development within South Africa.
Fields of Study Covered
Fine Music Radio is inviting students to apply for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards for the 2026 academic year.
Funding will be awarded to students studying towards a Diploma or Degree in Music Performance.
The bursary competition includes the following categories:
- African Music (Vocal / Instrumental)
- Classical Vocal
- Classical Instrumental
- Jazz Vocal / Instrumental
Competition Structure
The bursary competition consists of both preliminary and final rounds.
Preliminary Round
Applicants must submit a pre-recorded unlisted YouTube audition video as part of their application.
Up to three applicants from each category may be selected for the final round.
Applicants experiencing difficulties uploading videos to YouTube may contact the organisers for assistance.
Final Round
The final rounds will take place at the Baxter Concert Hall in Rondebosch:
- Classical Categories: 28 July 2026 at 6:30 PM
- Jazz and African Music Categories: 31 July 2026 at 6:30 PM
The performances will also be broadcast on Fine Music Radio.
Competitors selected for the final round must submit full accompanist or ensemble details before 15 July 2026.
By entering the competition, applicants agree that recordings of performances may be used by the FMR Bursary Trust.
Adjudication Process
Applications and performances will be reviewed by an adjudication panel.
The panel’s decisions are final and no appeals may be submitted.
Judging criteria may include:
- Performance quality
- Programme presentation
- Repertoire balance
- Instrumentation and arrangements
- Leadership within ensembles
Repertoire Requirements
Applicants must prepare a programme of up to 15 minutes containing at least two contrasting works.
Additional category requirements include:
- Classical Vocal applicants must perform at least one opera aria and one art song
- African Music applicants must demonstrate skill on at least two instruments, including voice if applicable
Applicants are encouraged to repeat their preliminary round programme during the finals.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements before applying:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must reside in South Africa
- Must be studying towards a Diploma or Degree in Music
- Must be registered at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following supporting documents:
- Copy of ID document
- Proof of registration from a tertiary institution
- Reference or endorsement letter from a teacher or lecturer
- Short biography (maximum 300 words)
- Motivational letter explaining career goals and intended use of funding
- Full programme details, including composers, arrangements and accompaniment
- Link to an unlisted YouTube audition video
Audition Video Requirements
The audition video must meet the following requirements:
- Maximum length of 15 minutes
- Recorded in landscape orientation
- Minimum resolution of 720p
- Clear audio and video quality
- Competitor must introduce themselves and list all performed works
- Video title must include:
“FMR Bursary Trust – Applicant Name – Category” - Video description must include the titles and composers of all works performed
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official FMR bursary application platform.
Applicants are advised to read all competition rules and requirements carefully before submitting their application.
Closing Date
📅 Applications close on 12 June 2026.
Late applications may not be accepted.
Contact Information
For enquiries related to the bursary programme, applicants may contact Fine Music Radio directly:
📧 Email: bursaryawards@fmr.co.za
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