Applications are invited from musicians based in Roscommon to apply to the Music Network National Musical Instrument Collection – open to up-and-coming classical players.
The call is for access to seven high-quality classical instruments including three violins, a viola, a cello and a concert harp.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan T.D. as part of the Music Network Music Capital Scheme which has been supporting the purchase of musical instruments for both individual professional musicians and non-professional performing groups for the past 17 years.
This specific strand of the scheme, for high end classical instruments is designed to address the unique challenges faced by emerging professional classical players – and keen to receive applications from exceptional Roscommon musicians.
A primary barrier in fulfilling artistic and career potential is the lack of access to a high end tonally strong instrument. The award loans high-quality instruments for a period of three years to successful applicants. Furthermore, awardees may also be offered up to €5,000 towards the purchase of a new bow which they will retain and own permanently.
This round of the award is open to advanced violinists, violists, cellists and harpists who are about to embark on, or in the process of studying for a Master’s degree, or who have completed their studies within the last three years and are now embarking on their professional career.
Applicants must demonstrate high potential and have a strong track record as solo performers and/ or in chamber music settings. Applications are open to musicians who are Irish citizens or resident in the Republic of Ireland. Irish citizens do not need to be living in Ireland to apply.
Established in 2008, the Music Capital Scheme is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and managed by Music Network. Since it was established the Scheme has made 850 awards to individual musicians and organisations, providing access to instruments for over 70,000 people across the country. 430 non-professional performing groups have been able to purchase instruments and expand their memberships, and 416 professional established and emerging musicians advanced their performance careers with new instruments enabled by the scheme. Even more musicians will be supported this year and in the future through the continued expansion of this instrument collection.
Applications for the Music Network National Musical Instrument Collection – Music Capital Scheme Award 4 – are now invited and close on Tuesday September 29th, 2026 at 2pm.
There will be an online information session for applicants on Tuesday August 11th, 2026 at 11 am. Applications can be made online at musicnetwork.ie. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an online interview the week of 19 October 2026, followed by in-person auditions in Dublin on Tuesday October 27th and Wednesday October 28th.
