What is The Royal Society of Musicians?
RSM is the UK’s oldest music charity, founded in 1738 to provide vital financial assistance, advice and guidance to music professionals throughout their careers and into retirement, if they unable to work because of accident, illness, stress or anxiety. That’s what we’ve been doing ever since!
What sort of support do you provide?
We provide financial assistance for many health needs including physical and emotional therapies, referrals to specialised practitioners and associated treatments, or providing short-term living expenses. We also help those needing support on a more long-term basis, by funding home adaptations and mobility aids, as well as funeral costs.
I can’t find work; can you help me?
Unfortunately, we can only provide assistance when physical or mental health prevents you from working.
How do I apply for support?
If you or any fellow musicians you know needs support, please contact us on [email protected] or 020 7629 6137.
I’m not a classical musician, do I qualify for support?
Yes! We are here for the entire profession, whatever genre you work in. It’s not only performers we help either, it’s producers, technicians, DJs, administrators, teachers, composers, and everything in between.
All we ask is applicants have been working in the music industry or professionally active within the world of music for a period of not less than three years preceding their application; and be of British nationality or have been resident in the United Kingdom for not less than the said three-year period.
Do I need to be a Member to apply for support?
No, you don’t need to be a Member. In fact, last year 90% of the grants we awarded went to non-members. View the full criteria for how we assess applications for support here: Guidelines for Assessing Applications
What are the benefits of membership?
Joining our community of like-minded musicians is purely altruistic, your subscription goes towards helping fellow musicians in need. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy being a part of our community and get to know fellow Members by joining Members’ meetings, attending Social Network gatherings, or our Healthy Practice Webinar series. Find out what’s coming up at www.rsmgb.org/events
Do I need to know two existing RSM Members to apply for membership?
Not anymore! In an effort to diversify our membership, our Governors and Court of Assistants are willing to act as your recommenders should you not know two existing Members. When completing your application form at www.rsmgb.org/join, just leave the Recommenders section blank and we will do the rest.
How much does membership cost?
Annual membership costs just £25 for those aged under 30, and £45 for those 30 and over. Life Membership costs £400 for those aged 50 and over, and £600 for those under 50. Visit www.rsmgb.org/join to apply.
I want to give money to RSM, how can I help?
Thank you! Every donation, however large or small, is a huge help to us and will ensure the musical life of the nation is secured now and for future generations.
To make a donation directly to us, please visit our JustGiving page at: https://link.justgiving.com/v1/charity/donate/charityId/16248
Alternatively, you can pay directly to our account using the details below:
Account Name – The Royal Society of Musicians
Account Number – 00248530
Sort Code – 16-00-38
We can also accept cheques made payable to The Royal Society of Musicians, and sent to 26 Fitzroy Square, London W1T6BT
If you are hosting an event and would like to fundraise, please contact [email protected] or 020 7629 6137, who can help spread the word.
If you would like to leave us a gift in your will, please visit www.rsmgb.org/legacy to see the possible options. Alternatively, contact us on [email protected] or 020 7629 6137.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
Please contact us.
