Minister Announces Continuation of Music Capital Scheme

Jimmy Deenihan TD with musicians on the steps of the Irish Traditional Music Archive, Dublin.

Minister Announces Continuation of Music Capital Scheme

Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for the Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht announced that he his department has allocated a total of €210,000 for the Musical Capital Scheme this year, an award administered by Music Network. The award supports the purchase of instruments for both individual professional musicians and non-professional groups and ensembles.

Over €1 million has been spent on the award since its inception in 2008, with 45 professional musicians 103 non-professional groups supported. Up to 75% of the value of the instruments purchased may be allocated to non-professional group applications; individual professional applications can receive up to 50% of the cost of a new instrument. The list of eligible expenditure items ranges from the instruments themselves to accessories such as rosin, mutes, guitar leads, microphones and PA systems.

Deenihan signalled his delight that his department could support the scheme again this year. ‘Musicians, whether amateur or professional, need instruments to perform,’ he said. ‘However, the cost of these instruments can be out of reach for many. This scheme is important because it helps professional and non professional musicians to get the instruments that they need so they can continue to perform and hone their skills and enrich our culture with their music.’

Music Network CEO, Sharon Rollston said that the scheme was one of a number of funding schemes run by the Dublin-based organisation. ‘Through operating this scheme since 2008, Music Network understands the level of need that exists in the area of capital provision for music,’ she said.

Applications are due by 5pm on 1 November 2013. For more information see here.

Published on 10 October 2013

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