A Distinction at Grade VIII of the Associated Board, or other equivalent qualification, is a minimum standard for application for an Instrumental Award. Successful candidates are usually of Associated Board Diploma standard or equivalent.

Players of the following instruments are eligible to apply:

Keyboard

• Piano

Strings

• Cello
• Viola
• Violin

Wind

• Bassoon
• Clarinet
• Flute
• French horn
• Oboe

Brass

• French horn
• Trombone
• Trumpet
• Tuba

Instrumentalists who play the double bass and harp can apply as normal, but depending on instrumental combinations in any given year the managers reserve the right to offer associate membership.  This entails participation in one project over the course of the year and entitles holders to half the benefits of a full award.

French horn players may apply to both schemes, but will be invited to express a preference at audition.