Premier and Arts Minister Anna Bligh today announced a major boost for regional Queensland’s contemporary musicians with $191 000 in funding to develop skills and opportunities in their own communities.
“This funding will play a vital role in kick-starting the careers of young emerging musicians in regional areas by offering comprehensive skill development programs and career development opportunities in the contemporary music industry,” said the Premier.
“Through the Queensland Government’s A Venue program, funding will be distributed to local government areas in 2010, with three new entrants from last year, including one Indigenous Council.”
The Premier said the successful Councils will implement programs which respond to specific needs and opportunities within local communities.
“The A Venue funding will help local bands tour, gain performance experience through local festivals, and participate in mentoring programs and professional development workshops,” she said.
“Applications were received from across the state and the highly-competitive selection process has narrowed the field down to seven Councils which all demonstrated a genuine commitment to providing opportunities for young musicians in their area.”
Funding of between $20 000 and $40 000 will go to Gold Coast City Council; Southern Downs Regional Council; Sunshine Coast Regional Council; Moreton Bay Regional Council; Rockhampton Regional Council; Cairns Regional Council, and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council.
A Venue is an important part of The Queensland Government’s contemporary music strategy, press play 2009 – 2012.
Press play aims to build a sustainable and entrepreneurial contemporary music sector in Queensland by supporting the growth and development of artists, musicians and bands; increasing Queensland content in the global marketplace; developing sustainable local music scenes, and building upon unique and niche market strengths, especially Indigenous music and youth contemporary music.
Initiatives include funding for creative content and product development through grants, competitive fellowships and scholarships.
For further information please visit the Arts Queensland website (www.arts.qld.gov.au).
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