Following the news in January that the Department of Education and Skills has committed to continue its funding of Music Generation, the national music education programme, the Department has now also established a new Music Education Bursary Scheme. The total available budget in 2016 is €50,000 and the scheme is currently open for applications.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide supports for smaller-scale, ‘non-mainstream’ music education/community music initiatives that have limited or no access to other forms of public funding.

The grants are not intended for capital expenditure, but can be used to purchase instruments. Commenting on the new scheme, Minister Jan O’Sullivan said.

I am really pleased that we can offer this grant which will help nurture our talented young musicians. The Department already supports music education through a number of initiatives including music on the curriculum, Music Generation and now through this bursary scheme. I hope that this initiative will help to further shape the landscape of music education in Ireland and provide support and encouragement for future talent.

Applicants must have a well-established track record in music education provision for young people aged 18 years and younger. The deadline for applications is 26 February.

For full details, visit http://goo.gl/ECgjlg