The Birr Festival of Music is currently accepting applications for the Trench Award 2024, aimed at young classical musicians and singers from the midlands region. The award, now in its eleventh year, is designed to support emerging talents in classical music, providing opportunities for further professional development either in Ireland or abroad.

Applications are invited from artists aged 27 and under pursuing a professional career in classical music, and submissions must include recordings of two contrasting pieces. Six finalists will be invited to attend the Birr Festival of Music from 3 to 6 May 2024 to perform a 15-minute programme on 5 May when the winner will be selected by a panel of specialists.

The Trench Award carries a top prize of €5,000, with additional bursaries awarded on the day, including the Birr Lions Club Bursary, Canto al Serchio Prize, Audrey Chisholm Award, and the Audience Prize.

The deadline for applications is 22 February 2024.

Previous winners of the award include violinist Julieanne Forrest (2023), flautist Martina Rosaria O’Connell (2022), cellist Aoibhin Keogh Daly (2021), oboist Ben Gannon (2020) and pianist Aidan Chan (2019). 

For further information and to apply, visit https://www.birrfestivalofmusic.com/awards

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