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| Handel: Messiah – Manchester Baroque at Manchester Cathedral in December 2024 (Photo: Tom Bowles) |
Continuo Foundation is inviting applications for funding early music concerts, tours and other projects taking place between May and October 2025, anywhere in the UK. As in previous rounds, the funding available in this ninth grant round amounts to £100,000.
Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded £850,000 to 100 UK period-instrument ensembles, including 29 emerging groups, formed since 2020. The 200 projects supported so far have benefited over 1,000 freelance musicians and more than 260,000 audience members in 200 locations across the country and online.
Professional UK-based period instrument ensembles are eligible to apply, with a separate category for emerging ensembles. Project proposals will be evaluated by the Foundation’s Advisory Panel and Trustees based on artistic quality, audience reach and long-term impact. At least 20% of the funds will be directed to support recently formed groups, underlining the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and new creative partnerships.
The photo (above) shows Manchester Baroque, one of the emerging ensembles the Foundation helped to get off the ground with their grants, and the ensemble has had enormous success in developing
new audiences for early music in Manchester.
In addition to grants, the Foundation supports all UK-based professional early music artists, including vocal ensembles, through the Continuo Connect digital platform for early music. The Foundation invests in growing the community of musicians, festivals and audiences using this online hub to raise the profile of the sector and to open access to the world of early music.
Full details from the Continuo Foundation’s website.
