Stephen Dodgson (1924–2013) was a distinguished London-based composer whose work spanned a broad stylistic range, from the angularly playfulness to the deeply evocative. He was especially celebrated for his guitar compositions (commissioned by John Williams and Julian Bream among others), but his prolific output covered orchestral, chamber, choral and vocal music. A professor of composition at the Royal College of Music and a familiar voice on BBC Radio 3, he saw many of his works performed and recorded by ensembles such as the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Royal Northern Sinfonia. In recent years, his chamber and vocal music has enjoyed renewed attention, with acclaimed recordings by the Tippett Quartet, Karolos, the Magnard Ensemble, Ailish Tynan, James Gilchrist, Roderick Williams, Marcus Farnsworth, Christopher Glynn, Sonoro, the Marian Consort and the London Festival of Contemporary Church Music. Recordings have received high praise from BBC Music Magazine, Gramophone, Fanfare, British Music Society Review and others.
Founded in 2015, two years after his death, the Stephen Dodgson Charitable Trust supports the appreciation, understanding and performance of Stephen Dodgson’s music. Reflecting his lifelong dedication to teaching musicians of the next generation and fondly nurturing their development, the Trust offers grants (totalling £25,000 per year) to individuals and organisations for projects that promote and preserve his legacy.
Who Can Apply
We welcome applications from a wide range of individuals and organisations – across all ages and levels, in the UK and internationally – including:
- Professional and amateur musicians
- Schools and educational institutions
- Youth ensembles and training groups
- Music organisations, festivals and venues
We are particularly interested in projects with strong public engagement and lasting impact – such as recordings, educational outreach, publications or performances that increase awareness and accessibility of Stephen Dodgson’s music. Applicants should propose a specific project with a clear and realistic timeline and delivery plan.
Several schools take part in Stephen Dodgson’s ‘Boat Race’ as part of the Barnes Music Festival, supported by the Stephen Dodgson Charitable Trust
How to Apply
Please email your proposal to info@stephendodgson.com. Applications are accepted year-round.
Please include the following details:
- Project description – what you are proposing, including repertoire, content for recording or publication, and overall aims
- People involved – details of performers and any partners or collaborators (e.g. ensembles, festivals, record labels)
- Experience – relevant background of applicants or lead musicians (including any reviews or similar)
- Location – where the project will take place
- Timeline – proposed or approximate dates
- Reach and legacy – expected audience, distribution plans, educational impact, publicity strategy and likely contribution to Stephen Dodgson’s legacy
- Budget – amount requested, total project cost and other expected sources of funding
- Contact details – name, email and phone number of the lead applicant
What Trustees Look For
Applicants are more likely to be successful if they can demonstrate how the project:
- Advances the Trust’s mission, raising awareness of and supporting the appreciation of Stephen Dodgson’s work
- Represents good value for the funding provided
- Could encourage other musicians and the broader public to engage with his work
- May support and enhance the Trust’s public profile
And if:
- They can demonstrate a strong track record in performance, recording and project delivery
- Their work is positively recognised in the classical music world or press
- They demonstrate sound financial planning, especially if they can show match funding
- There are clear estimated costs with breakdown as relevant and a clear delivery schedule.
What Happens Next
We will acknowledge receipt of your application. Proposals are reviewed at quarterly Board meetings (or sooner as appropriate). For funding requests above £2,000, applicants may be invited to a short online meeting to discuss the proposal.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome after a decision is made. In some cases, the Trust may suggest revisions or offer partial funding.
Ongoing Support
The Trust will often offer more than just financial support. We intend to keep in contact with funding recipients, particularly for larger projects, offering help at key points. (For example, sharing programme notes or providing a listening ear to help recipients make the best use of our funding.)
Publicity
We ask all recipients to work with us to publicise their grant and the outcomes of their project. This includes sharing photographs and any promotional material that may help spread awareness of Dodgson’s music, as well as any feedback at the end of the project.
The Outcry Ensemble and Academy of English Voices perform ‘Hymn to Harmony’ at Smith Square, supported by the Stephen Dodgson Charitable Trust
Resources and Support Before Applying
Access to Scores
Preview scores of most of Stephen Dodgson’s works are available on our website. If you would like access to full scores for a project, please contact us at info@stephendodgson.com.
Questions or Advice
If you have any questions about the application process, please email us at info@stephendodgson.com .