Applications for prestigious Offaly music award now open Reporter: '); '); Birr Festival of Music is now seeking applications from young singers and musicians who are pursuing a career in professional performance in the classical field. Now in its eighth year, The Trench Award aims to assist a young singer or musician develop their professional career through further study at home or abroad. The bursary will be awarded to a student attending, or having been offered a confirmed place at, a University/ Music College or another accredited specialist music establishment undertaking classical music studies, either instrumental or vocal, in pursuit of a career in professional performance.