The Borletti-Buitoni Trust (BBT) was established as a charitable trust in 2002 to help young musicians throughout the world. The Trust assists classical instrumentalists, ensembles and singers in their early 20s and 30s to further develop their international careers with awards that fund tailor-made projects. The first awards were made in 2003.
Each year the Trust confidentially invites respected figures in the classical music profession to nominate young artists for consideration. Annual awards are announced each February according to the judgement of the Artistic Committee which comprises Franco Buitoni, Adam Gatehouse, Martijn Sanders and Mitsuko Uchida DBE .
In addition to the financial budgets, which range from £10,000 to £30,000, the Trust offers support in matters such as public relations and media communications. Periodically the Trust also organises residencies, showcase concerts and concert tours for selected award winners.
As of 2011[update], BBT’s trustees are Ilaria Borletti-Buitoni, Franco Buitoni, David Landau, Sir Ewen Fergusson and Mitsuko Uchida. The Honorary Committee comprises Leif Ove Andsnes, Richard Goode, Clemens Hagen, Heinrich Schiff and Christian Tetzlaff.
The Borletti-Buitoni Trust website