Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursary Trust Awards South Africa

The Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursary Trust Awards for 2025 help music students enrolled in performance diplomas or degrees shine. If you’re studying music performance in South Africa, apply by 13 June 2025 — finals are live, broadcast and offer major exposure. At BursaryForms, we guide you to seize your stage.

About the FMR

Fine Music Radio (101.3 FM) is a Cape Town-based community radio station, known for classical and jazz music. It operates under the FMR Bursary Trust, sponsored by the Rolf-Stephan Nussbaum Foundation, offering scholarships, awards, and performance opportunities to tertiary music students.

Fields Covered by the FMR Bursary Trust Awards

This bursary competition is for:

  • Music performance (vocal or instrumental) Diploma or Degree studies.
  • Four music categories: African Music (vocal/instrumental), Classical Vocal, Classical Instrumental, Jazz Vocal/Instrumental.

Expenses Covered by the FMR Bursary Trust Awards

This is more of a competitive award than full funding; it includes:

  • Prizes from a total pool of R120,000 distributed across the four categories.
  • The chance to perform live in the final round at the Baxter Concert Hall, Rondebosch.
  • Broadcast of final performances on Fine Music Radio.
  • Copy of the broadcast for finalists for non-commercial use.

Eligibility Requirements for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards

You will need to meet all of the following:

  • South African citizenship and residency.
  • Be registered for a Diploma or Degree in Music (performance) at a South African tertiary institution.
  • Submit proof of registration at your institution, plus a signed reference or endorsement from a teacher/lecturer.
  • Submit your audition via pre-recorded video (YouTube unlisted) in the preliminary round.

Suggested tips from BursaryForms:

  • Record your video in good quality (landscape orientation, clear audio/video), observe piece requirements.
  • Make sure your application includes all required supporting documents to avoid disqualification.
  • Choose contrasting pieces for your performance to show range.

This page was updated on September 25, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards

Here’s the process:

  • Complete the FMR Bursary Trust entry form (online).
  • Attach certified documents: your ID, proof of academic registration, reference letter, motivational letter, programme details of audition pieces.
  • Upload your pre-recorded YouTube audition video (unlisted) with the required format.
  • Submit before or on the closing date.

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards

13 June 2025 — this is the deadline for the 2025 cycle. Applications submitted after will not be considered.

Contact Fine Music Radio

If you need help or have questions:

Fine Music Radio Bursary Trust
Tel: +27 21 401 1013
Email: bursaryawards@fmr.co.za
Website: FMR Bursary Trust Awards Page

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards?
South African citizens registered for a performance-based Diploma or Degree in Music at a South African tertiary institution.
What categories are included?
The four categories are African Music (vocal/instrumental), Classical Vocal, Classical Instrumental, Jazz Vocal/Instrumental.
What is required in the audition video?
A pre-recorded YouTube unlisted video with approximately 15 minutes performance covering two contrasting pieces; follow FMR format (titles, composers/arrangers, etc.).
What happens after I submit my video?
Up to 3 finalists per category will be invited to perform live in the final round at Baxter Concert Hall; final performances are broadcast on FMR.
Is this bursary a full scholarship?
No. It is an awards competition with prizes across categories. It does not cover all study costs by default.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Late applications are not accepted. You must apply on or before 13 June 2025.
Do I need proof of registration?
Yes. You must submit proof that you are registered at your tertiary institution.
Will finals be public performances?
Yes — final rounds are held live at Baxter Concert Hall and broadcast on Fine Music Radio.
How many finalists per category?
Up to three applicants per category are selected for the final round.