2026 Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursary

2026 FMR Bursary: Apply Now for Music Students

Are you a passionate music student in South Africa? The Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursary 2026 offers a golden opportunity to fund your music performance studies. With prizes worth R120,000 up for grabs across four categories, this prestigious award can help you take your music career to the next level. Apply before 13 June 2025 to secure your spot!

About the Bursary Provider – Fine Music Radio

Fine Music Radio (FMR) is a Cape Town-based community radio station dedicated to classical and jazz music. Established by the Rolf-Stephan Nussbaum Foundation, the FMR Bursary Trust Awards support talented students pursuing diplomas or degrees in music performance, with the goal of nurturing future professional musicians.

Bursary Details – What’s Covered

The FMR Bursary Trust Awards will reward top performers in these four music categories:

  • Classical Instrumental
  • Classical Vocal
  • Jazz (Vocal or Instrumental)
  • African Music (Vocal or Instrumental)

Winners receive a share of R120,000 in funding to support their music studies.

Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

To be considered for the FMR Bursary 2026, applicants must meet these requirements:

  • Be a South African citizen residing in South Africa
  • Currently registered at a South African tertiary institution
  • Studying towards a Diploma or Degree in Music Performance
  • Submit all required documentation and a video audition

If you meet these requirements, you may qualify!

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

  1. Complete the online application form.
  2. Enter “bursariesafrica.co.za” when asked how you heard about the bursary.
  3. Upload the following documents:
    • South African ID document
    • Proof of academic registration (on institutional letterhead)
    • Signed reference letter from your music teacher or lecturer
    • Short biography (max 300 words)
    • Motivational letter detailing your career goals
    • Programme list of performance pieces (title, composer, arrangement)
    • Unlisted YouTube video audition (max 15 mins, landscape, clear audio)

Selection Process – How Winners Are Chosen

The competition has two rounds:

  • Preliminary Round: Submit an unlisted YouTube video audition. Up to 3 finalists per category will be selected.
  • Final Round: Live performance at the Baxter Concert Hall:
    • Classical Categories: 29 July 2025, 18:30
    • Jazz and African Music: 1 August 2025, 18:30

Performances will be broadcast on Fine Music Radio, and finalists will receive a copy of the broadcast for non-commercial use. Judging is based on presentation, repertoire, arrangement (for Jazz/African), and leadership. All decisions are final.

Important Dates & Contact

  • Application Deadline: 13 June 2025
  • Finalist Info Submission Deadline: 19 July 2025

Questions? Contact [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the FMR Bursary?
Only South African citizens currently studying music at a university or college can apply.
What categories can I enter?
You can enter Classical Vocal, Classical Instrumental, Jazz, or African Music (vocal/instrumental).
How much is the bursary worth?
The total prize pool is R120,000, split across the four category winners.
Is the bursary renewable each year?
No, it is a once-off award based on a performance competition.
How do I submit my audition?
You must upload a YouTube video (unlisted), then include the link in your online application form.
Can I use a phone to record my audition?
Yes, but it must be landscape, clear, stable, and at least 720p quality.
When is the closing date?
Applications close on Friday, 13 June 2025.
Where is the final competition held?
The final is at the Baxter Concert Hall in Cape Town on 2 August 2025.
Will my performance be broadcast?
Yes, all finalist performances will be recorded and broadcast by Fine Music Radio.
Where do I apply?
Use the official online form here: Apply for the FMR Bursary

Bursaries Updates

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)