The Michael Cuddigan Trust was set up in 2014 to support the composition and performance of new vocal chamber music.

Every year since then the Trust, led by Sir Stephen Oliver, has supported a small number of new works by emerging composers, and performances of these pieces by top musicians in the field.

The Trust was set up by Michael Cuddigan, a long time Aldeburgh resident, who was passionate about music, and a great supporter of young composers and performers.

Sir Stephen Oliver died in 2024. He had a distinguished career in the law, first at the tax bar and then, from 1991-2011, as a Judge.

A keen amateur cellist, Stephen involved himself in a number of music-related charities. He was chair of the Blackheath Concert Halls charity from 1986-1992; a member of the board of the London Sinfonietta from 1992-2017; a trustee of the Britten Pears foundation from 2001-2008, and from its inception in 2014, chair of the Michael Cuddigan Trust.

In memory and celebration of Stephen Oliver, the Michael Cuddigan Trust will be renamed as the Cuddigan Oliver Trust from December 1st, 2024.

The Trust’s charitable objectives - the funding of new vocal chamber music - will remain the same. However, it aims to expand its fundraising remit to support an increasing number of new compositions and to facilitate their performance through partnerships with top orchestras and music making organisations.

Registered charity: 1158975