Music Network today welcomed the announcement by Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht that he has allocated capital funds of €210,000 for the Music Capital Scheme 2013.
The Music Capital Scheme, supported by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and managed by Music Network, provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments to both non-professional performing groups/ensembles and professional performing artists.
The scheme has been in operation since 2008. To date 45 professional musicians and 103 non-professional musicians have benefited to the tune of €1,060,911. A full list of awardees can be seen at www.musicnetwork.ie.
Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan TD said:
"I'm delighted that - once again - my Department can support this Music Capital Scheme. Musicians, whether amateur or professional, need instruments to perform. 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."
Commenting on the good news, Music Network CEO, Sharon Rollston said:
"Music Network is very pleased to be able to continue the Music Capital Scheme in 2013, as one of a range of supports we offer to Irish musicians. Through operating this scheme since 2008 Music Network understands the level of need that exists in the area of capital provision for music. We are grateful to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht for their continued support."
The Music Capital Scheme was established by The Arts Council, The IRMA Trust and Music Network in 2008 as an action-research initiative designed to provide support for the purchase of musical instruments. In response to the success of the initial pilot scheme, funding was made available since 2011 by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
The Music Capital Scheme is now open for applications and the closing date is Friday 1st November 2013. Further information, application forms and guidelines are available at www.musicnetwork.ie/musicians/funding/capitalscheme/.
For further information, please contact: Louise Walsh, PR & Marketing Manager, Music Network Tel (01) 475 0224 Email pr@musicnetwork.ie
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