In line with our policy of helping young musicians, the Trust became the founding sponsor of Young Artists’ Platform, an initiative created over 20 years ago to bring burgeoning talent to a wider audience through concert platforms around the UK. The aim of the scheme is to introduce new young artists to the concert circuit, plus where possible to broadcasting networks, without exposing them to any personal financial burden and to provide financial and personal backup at this stage of an musician's career.

Founded by Callum Ross in 1983, the Young Artists’ Platform selects from audition a small number of musicians each year with a view to their giving a series of concerts including two London platforms - at the Wigmore Hall and Fairfield Croydon - before going on to play at many of the major festivals, music societies and concert halls around the UK.

Important Aspects of the YAP Initiative include:

• Shouldering the risk of promoting a London concert and allowing musicians to perform to as wide and as influential an audience as possible.
• Providing continuing concert experience and so allowing for building repertoire and learning professional stagecraft.
• Boosting income at a time when finances are at their most vulnerable.
• Offering practical and financial help with producing publicity material including brochures, photographs and demo recordings.
• Providing sympathetic support and guidance with career decisions

In addition to the financial backing of the Tillett Trust, the Platform is also supported by the Milton Grundy Foundation and in the past has attracted broadcasting experience from BBC Radio London, GLR and Classic FM.

"Being on the Tillett Trust Young Artists' Platform has been a tremendous boost for me, both in terms of concert experience and exposure. I can honestly say that the platform would be a great help for any young musician, providing an excellent springboard for a developing career"
     Nicola Eimer - September 2005

"The Tillett Trust’s Young Artist’s Platform scheme has been essential to my development as a musician. It has provided me with unique advice and performing opportunities including my Wigmore Hall debut and my first professional recording. Being taken under the wing of YAP changed the direction of my career and I will always be grateful for all the help it gave me."
    Morgan Szymansk - September 2005