Applications are now open for the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards, which continue to celebrate and support the exceptional talent of young people in Fermanagh. Established by her family and administered by The Fermanagh Trust, the Awards honour the legacy of Enniskillen-born composer and musician Joan Trimble, encouraging young people to explore creativity, the performing arts and Irish culture.
The most recent group of bursary recipients reflects the wide range of talent and artistic pathways being supported through the Awards.
Jack McMahon is being supported to take part in the Meitheal Summer School, an intensive programme featuring masterclasses, composition and arrangement workshops, traditional orchestra sessions and a finale concert. Yolanda Brannigan is being supported to develop her orchestral and instrumental experience through participation in an Ulster Youth Orchestra summer residential course and concerts, alongside ongoing weekly violin lessons in Camlough.
Peter McMahon is receiving support to continue his professional development through specialist vocal tuition with a Glasgow-based baritone, as well as piano lessons as he works towards a piano teaching diploma. Jack Cassidy is being supported in the recording and production of his first solo EP, including working with professional musicians and in developing artwork for the release. Rose Connolly is being supported to undertake professional vocal training with Bel Canto under the guidance of Frank Merriman and his team with a structured programme of individual one-to-one lessons.
Previous Joan Trimble Bursary recipient Peter McMahon received support to continue his professional development through specialist vocal tuition and piano lessons.
Liz McVey, Chair of the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards and granddaughter of the late Joan Trimble, said: “We are delighted to open applications once again for the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards and to continue supporting young people from Fermanagh who are passionate about music, performance and creativity. It is inspiring to see the range of disciplines and ambitions represented by our most recent recipients,and I would strongly encourage young people with an interest in the performing arts or Irish culture to consider applying.”
The Joan Trimble Bursary Awards are open to individuals up to and including 25 years of age and are designed to support training, education and practical experience in the creative and performing arts and in Irish culture. The bursaries can be used to support opportunities such as specialist training sessions and courses, participation in masterclasses and summer schools, and involvement in international cultural programmes. Applicants must be living in Fermanagh, have been in full-time education in County Fermanagh, or be currently studying at university or in higher education while officially resident in Fermanagh.
For more information or to download an application form, CLICK HERE or email secretary@fermanaghtrust.org. The closing date for applications is Friday 27th March 2026.