Heriot Watt University - Music Scholarship

Heriot-Watt University Music Scholarship

You will receive free music lessons worth up to about 460 EUR per year (up to 400 GBP) for one-to-one tuition in singing or on an instrument. The scholarship is initially valid for one academic year. It is usually renewed each year for the remainder of your studies, provided you remain an active participant in the programme. The funding comes from the Heriot-Watt Alumni Fund. This is tuition, not cash: you will receive tuition, not a monthly payment.

Who can apply

• University: You’re studying at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.
• Field of study: Any degree subject. You do not necessarily have to study music as your main subject; the scholarship supports your musical activities alongside any degree programme.
• Musical ability: You are an experienced choir singer or orchestral musician. As a guide, singers and soloists should be at approximately ABRSM Grade 8, and orchestral musicians at approximately Grade 6. ABRSM is a widely recognised British system of graded music examinations.
• Proof: You may submit examination results (e.g. ABRSM), details of your membership of choirs or orchestras, and a letter of recommendation from your most recent singing or instrumental teacher.
• Commitment: You’ll join a university choir or orchestra and take part in all rehearsals and concerts. Your commitment counts just as much as your talent.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply, including international students.

How to apply

You must complete an application form provided by the Director of Music and submit your examination results and a letter of recommendation. All new applicants must give an audition during their first semester. The award of the scholarship is based on your audition and the extent to which you are actively involved in a choir or orchestra during that semester.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding is highly selective: you must be enrolled at Heriot-Watt University, demonstrate a high standard of musical ability in playing or singing, and be committed to the university’s ensembles – which is why the pool of eligible applicants is small. If you already sing or play to this standard and are prepared to rehearse and perform regularly, your chances are good. Your actual involvement in the choir or orchestra carries just as much weight as the audition itself.