Isidor Desser · National
Desser Music Scholarship Fund
About this award
Get substantial financial support for advanced classical music studies—apply by August 1, November 1, or February 1. Apply through Indspire's central Building Brighter Futures program — one application covers all sponsor pools.
The provider doesn't post a fixed dollar amount, but describes the award as providing substantial support. This is a bursary, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are an Indigenous student pursuing high-level training in classical music, especially if you play a string instrument. You can apply by August 1, November 1, or February 1. No notification timeline is posted publicly — before you start the application, check Indspire's program page or call their office to confirm when you will hear back. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Indspire how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Indspire during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Indspire whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain. How to apply: This funding is administered through Indspire's Building Brighter Futures Bursaries & Scholarships program. Students complete one central application that's evaluated against all 360+ of Indspire's funding pools (including this one) — you don't apply to the sponsor directly. The Apply button on this page routes to Indspire's portal automatically. For the full program description, all three application deadlines, and detailed eligibility, see Indspire Building Brighter Futures Bursaries & Scholarships on FundMyCourse.
Can you get it?
- Indigenous — citizenship requirement
- Post Secondary, Advanced Level — study level
- Studying classical music, String Performance — field of study
How to apply
Review eligibility and gather your documents~1 hour
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Submit by No deadline~1 hour
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.
More details
The biggest mistake is submitting a generic recording.
Winners instead choose pieces that showcase their technical range and emotional depth at an advanced level.
Record your best performance in a quiet space with high-quality audio.
The biggest mistake is using a general teacher who doesn't know your specific goals.
Winners use a mentor or conductor who can speak to their growth in classical music.
Ask your referee to highlight your discipline and potential for advanced study.