BURSARY SPONSORSHIP
Sponsor a bursary place for a young musician to attend the Belfast TradFest Summer School 2026!
The Belfast TradFest Bursary Scheme aims to help talented young musicians attend the Belfast TradFest Summer School, taking place from Monday 27th July - Friday 31st July 2026 at Ulster University.
This week-long immersive programme allows students to learn from world-class musicians, participate in workshops, perform at iconic venues like Belfast Cathedral, and build lifelong connections within the traditional music community.
However, for many young musicians, financial barriers stand in the way of this invaluable experience. Your support can make a real difference by sponsoring a bursary that covers the cost of tuition for a deserving student.
By sponsoring a bursary, you will:
- Give a young musician access to a world-renowned summer school.
- Help preserve and promote our rich musical heritage.
- Be recognised as a valued supporter of Belfast TradFest, with opportunities for brand visibility and acknowledgment in press and publicity.
Beneficiaries of bursaries will attend over five days and course includes:
Three-hour long music Masterclass in their chosen instrument, taught by world-class traditional musicians.
Access to a programme of afternoon events, demonstrations, talks and workshops in traditional music technique, history and other aspects of traditional music that are generally unavailable outside of higher education programmes.
The opportunity to play alongside top class traditional musicians in daily learner’s slow session which will enhance their musical skills.
Access to full programme of open sessions alongside the best trad musicians in the world
Performance opportunity at an end of Summer School concert in Belfast Cathedral.
Benefit to sponsor:
Complimentary concert tickets – ideal for promotions or personal use
Social media recognition highlighting your sponsorship and promoting your organisation
Invitation to a photocall & drinks reception with students for press and marketing opportunities
Your support will provide invaluable opportunities for young musicians while ensuring the future of our traditional music heritage.
The cost to sponsor a non-residential bursary place is:
One Student - £150.00
Two Students - £275.00
Four Students - £500.00
Seven Students - £1,000.00
Fifteen Students - £2,000.00
“It has completely opened up a whole new connection and confidence for me for traditional Irish music. It always felt so inaccessible...but this past week has changed all of that.”
A special thanks to our 2026 Bursary Sponsors:
Anne Macmillan
Belfastfolk
Belfast Operatic Company
Blas International Summer School
Brendan & Margaret Lacey
Carole Wardlaw & Eimear O Kane
Ceol for Ciarán
Clare Devlin
Fergal O'Brien
Fidelma Flynn
Glengormley School of Traditional Music
In celebration of the life of Fearghal Morgan, fiddler, composer and lover of life
In memory of Joan M. Janis and Patrick John "PJ" English
Mid Ulster District Council
Niall Cochrane
Peter McClenaghan
Scott Naismith
Stella Lawrenson
Tom McGonigle
Works Coffee Roasters
Thank you!
Your contribution makes a huge difference!