A student I knew (from UK) was trying to fund himself for a jazz piano course in Berklee, US and came up with a grand list of 'rewards' for supporters including house concerts etc.

I donated twice, for two new tunes, and had the loveliest afternoon discussing tune types, possible titles etc. before he went off to the States -- and the proviso was that said tunes would have a traditional feel, because that was our mutual background.

Anyway, a year or so later I got the call and we met up again, at which point he handed over two framed manuscripts -- one of a jig and the other a slow air -- together with a home-made recording of same. What a joy and delight!

Because I was so lucky with generous, non-financial support throughout my own introduction to traditional music, I'm happy to be 'paying it forward' for current youngsters when I can, but I'd probably be happier not funding CDs...