JBT to fully fund two places on Sound and Music’s 'In the Making' course

Emily & Poppie, who won our fully-funded places in 2025.

Jacob Billington Trust is proud to announce that we will once again be fully funding places on Sound and Music’s In the Making programme, supporting two young people to access this incredible opportunity at no cost to them.

We first supported the programme last year, and after seeing the value it offers to young music creators, we are delighted to continue our support again this year.

In the Making is the UK’s only year-long artist development programme for young music creators aged 14-18. Run by Sound and Music, the course is designed for young people who are passionate about creating their own music and want to develop their confidence, creativity and skills alongside other like-minded young artists.

The programme brings together young creators from across the UK and includes a six-day residential at the University of Huddersfield, followed by a 12-month programme of online development, mentoring, workshops, creative tasks, peer support and careers guidance.

During the residential, participants work with experienced tutors, professional artists and an Ensemble-in-Residence to develop their own original music. Their work is then professionally performed, recorded and filmed as part of a showcase. After the residential, the support continues online, helping young people keep developing their music, build confidence and explore future pathways within the music industry.

The course is open to all types of young music creators, whether they make beats, songs, electronic music, sound art, classical music, experimental work or anything in between. Applicants do not need formal music qualifications, the ability to read traditional notation, or previous experience of working with professional musicians. The focus is on creativity, curiosity and potential.

A standard residential place on the course is worth £836, meaning JBT’s support this year is worth £1,672 in total across the two funded places. This includes the full residential, 12-month online programme, accommodation, meals, professional tuition, performances, recordings, industry sessions and access to music software. Through JBT’s support, two young people will be able to take part without having to worry about the cost.

At Jacob Billington Trust, our mission is to create more opportunities for young people to access music, creativity and the arts. Programmes like In the Making can be life-changing, giving young people the space, support and belief they need to explore their creativity and take the next step in their journey.

We are incredibly proud to be supporting Sound and Music again this year and helping two young people access an opportunity that could shape their future in music.

To apply, please visit our applications page.