Guidelines for Grant Allocation and information for applicants

The Trust Deed states that the object of the Trust is "the furtherance of the musical education of children and other young people". The following guidelines are intended to clarify how the Trustees intend to use the money at their disposal to meet that broad objective, although in special circumstances the Trustees may support causes that do not wholly fall within the guidelines set out below. The Trustees intend to review these guidelines periodically, in the light of experience from operating the Trust.

1) The Trust's work will predominantly be directed to musical education as part of a general education, rather than for training or encouraging young professionals for a career in music. All levels of skill and ability will be included in the Trust's remit, with no particular ability range being favoured.

2) No particular instrument should be favoured; on the contrary, as wide a possible a range of instruments and musical styles should be encouraged.

3) Development of listening as well as playing skills will be included in the Trust's remit.

4) The Trust will seek to encourage group musical activities, for example in choirs, chamber music groups and orchestras, as well as solo playing skills.

5) When prioritising grants, preference will be given to causes where there is most need and where other sources of assistance are not available.

6) The majority of grants are likely to go to school age children, with support to causes for young people in their twenties forming a lower percentage of the grant money allocated.

7) Preference will be given to grants for projects in the area in which Sheena Booth worked (i.e. Redbridge and surrounding London boroughs) although applications from other areas will be considered. NB: almost all our grants for 2006-7 were awarded to projects in North and East London.

8) The Trustees will aim over time broadly to reflect the balance of interests set out in these guidelines.

Applications will be considered for grants towards both individuals and organisations, and may be made by both organisations and individuals. Applications should be made in writing, on not more that 2 pages of A4 paper, and should state the name and status of the applicant, details of the beneficiaries, the amount of money requested, the use to which it will be put (including an indication of timescales) and how the project relates to the Trust's object and guidelines, as stated above. Successful applicants are asked to provide the Trustees with feedback on the outcome and success of the project. The Trustees expect to make funding decisions about twice a year.

Please send applications by post or e-mail to:

The Secretary
The Sheena Booth Music Trust
Lea Barn
Winter Hill
Cookham Dean
Berkshire SL6 9TW
secretary@booth-seismic.co.uk