Sampad South Asian Arts and Heritage is delighted to offer a £1,000 music bursary to a new or emerging musician specialising in string instruments with a timbre similar to South Asian instruments such as the sitar, sarangi or veena (these are just examples).
This landmark project, commissioned by The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust, will be performed by The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), composed by Rekesh Chauhan BEM. The project brings together musicians representing sounds from across the 56 Commonwealth nations, celebrating cultural diversity, creativity and heritage on a global stage.
This is a unique, high-profile opportunity for a new or emerging musician to:
- Work alongside a leading British Asian composer
- Showcase their practice within an international cultural project
- Be part of a nationally recognised and celebrated performance
- Receive mentoring from the Sampad Team and Rekesh Chauhan
- Gain valuable insight into the creative process behind a large-scale musical project
Eligibility:
We welcome applications from musicians who
- Specialise in string instruments from the South Asia region, with a timbre similar to South Asian instruments such as the sitar, sarangi, veena, or other relevant instruments within this remit.
- Create work rooted in South Asian or British Asian cultures and traditions. Note – applicants do not need to identify as South Asian to apply.
- Can provide video evidence and a CV/artist statement to demonstrate their practice
- Are based in the UK, and are able to travel to Birmingham for rehearsals, recording and mentorship
Bursary details:
- Total value: £1,000
- Payment: £500 at the beginning of the project in October 2025, and £500 upon project completion
- Participation: Rehearsals and performance for the Commonwealth Symphony 2026
Key dates and timings:
Final dates and timings will be confirmed with the successful applicant, but they will need to attend:
- One rehearsal day in mid-late October 2025
- One day of recording with the CBSO at the end of October 2025
- A potential performance opportunity in 2026 which is to be confirmed
Deadline for applications: 9am on Monday 22nd September 2025. Applicants will be shortlisted and invited for an interview in early October 2025.
