Music Network's Music Capital Scheme is now open for applications; CEO Sharon Rollston introduces the scheme and tells you how to apply.
We’re delighted to invite applications for this year’s Music Capital Scheme which provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments to both professional musicians and non-professional music groups across Ireland.
The scheme, which is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, has granted 544 awards to individual musicians and organisations since it was established in 2008.
These awards have provided access to instruments for over 51,000 people - an investment which continues to make a significant impact on the quality of, and access to, music-making and live music performance throughout Ireland.
This year we’re aiming to help even more people obtain their ideal instrument with our biggest award fund to date. A total of €542,000 is available through Awards 1, 2 and 3 which are now open.
We’ll also be introducing two brand new awards later this year to address specific challenges faced by emerging professional classical musicians and by arts venues presenting live music.
I’ve seen first hand the difference these instruments have made to musicians and community groups, and to the quality of performances that audiences can enjoy across the country.
We want to help as many people as possible to progress on their musical journey, and if you think this scheme could benefit you or your group, I’d encourage you to apply.
Who can apply for the scheme?
Awards 1-3 are open to established and emerging individual professional musicians and non-professional performing groups.
Award 1 is for non-professional performing groups based in the Republic of Ireland. This includes community music groups and resource organisations across all genres of music, for example orchestras, marching bands, choral and samba groups and more.
Schools can also apply for instruments for non-core curricular activities. In the past, organisations like men’s sheds, community choirs, pipe bands and youth organisations have all benefitted from funding, and instruments provided by the scheme are in use by children from early years upwards, right through to more mature players and including musicians with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Professional performing musicians can apply for Awards 2 and 3. These are for individual musicians who are 18 and over and resident in the Republic of Ireland.
Award 2 is specifically for established musicians and Award 3 for emerging musicians. As part of your application for these two awards you’ll be asked to demonstrate your track record, this includes providing things like your CV, information about your training and professional development, details of your performances and audio or video recordings.
How can we help with your application?
If you are considering making an application, we have an extensive range of supports available to help you and I would really recommend taking advantage of these.
All the supports are provided free of charge. We’ll be starting with some general information sessions on Facebook live which will walk you through the application process and give you an opportunity to ask any questions.
There will also be a number of Zoom sessions on key topics to help with your application and some one-to-one consultation sessions will also be available.
Our team are always on hand to help too, and I encourage you to get in touch by email or by phone if you have any questions.
Applications for the Music Capital Scheme Awards 1, 2, and 3 are now open!
— Music Network (@MusNetIrl) May 1, 2024
⌛Deadline: Tuesday, 25 June at 2 pm.
💰Funded by @DeptCultureIRL
🔍Find out more and apply 👇https://t.co/yppzfNKbHe pic.twitter.com/97eugA7gb9
How can I apply?
Applications for Awards 1,2 & 3 can be made online via the Music Network website and the deadline for applications is 2pm on Tuesday 25 June 2024.
This is a wonderful scheme which allows so many deserving organisations and individuals to receive the crucial funds they need to purchase musical instruments.
If you think this scheme could benefit you or your organisation, we encourage you to make an application or get in touch to find out more.
Application forms, award guidelines and information about signing up for our information sessions are all available here.
Find out more about Music Network and the Music Capital Scheme here.
