The Arts Council Margaret Arnold Award 2026 – Applications Open

Application Deadline: 26 March 2026

The Margaret Arnold Award provides up to €10,000 to support advanced Master’s-level postgraduate study in music or opera performance. This award is offered to facilitate high-level development and training for instrumentalists and singers pursuing excellence in their artistic fields. The award is intended to assist talented musicians in accessing prestigious international Master’s programmes, enabling them to develop their performance skills to the highest standard and make a significant contribution to the music sector upon their return.

Award Benefits

• Grant funding of up to €10,000
• Support towards tuition fees and associated costs for accredited Master’s programmes in music or opera performance
• One-off payment made directly to the successful applicant

Note: You may apply for any amount up to €10,000. Applications requesting amounts above €10,000 will not be accepted.

Eligibility Requirements

The award is open to instrumentalists and singers in the fields of music and/or opera who meet the following criteria:

• Will have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent NFQ Level 8 (or international equivalent) degree in music by 1 October 2026
• Have been accepted to a Master’s degree programme at NFQ Level 9 (or international equivalent) in music and/or opera performance
• Be resident in the Republic of Ireland

Who Cannot Apply

Applications will not be accepted from individuals who:

• Are an organisation
• Are requesting support towards fees and associated costs for unaccredited courses
• Have not successfully completed an undergraduate degree by 1 October 2026
• Are not resident in the Republic of Ireland

Application Process

Click on the link to the application website to apply. Applications must be submitted through the Arts Council’s online portal and should include:

• Completed application form
• Evidence of acceptance to a Master’s programme in music or opera performance
• Academic transcripts and qualifications
• Artistic CV highlighting performance experience
• Personal statement outlining artistic goals and how the award will support development
• Budget detailing proposed use of funds

Click here to apply

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Artistic merit and potential of the applicant
• Quality and relevance of the proposed Master’s programme
• Potential impact of the award on the applicant’s artistic development
• Clarity and feasibility of the proposed budget

For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of The Arts Council Margaret Arnold Award