Music Network recently announced the results of the Music Capital Scheme 2020. A total of €248,200 in funding from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media has been awarded to 29 performing groups and 21 individual musicians across Ireland. Tallaght music organisation Alternative Entertainments was one of the awardees receiving €3,857. Alternative Entertainments are based in Rua Red in Tallaght and have been programming arts events for the community since its establishment in 1982. The Music Capital Scheme established in 2008 is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and managed by Music Network. The Scheme provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments in two discrete categories of support, to both non-professional performing groups and individual professional performing musicians. The Music Capital Scheme has enabled many thousands of musicians across Ireland to develop their musical potential and participate in the performance of live music.
Commenting on the initiative, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin TD said: “I am delighted to have provided support to The Music Capital Scheme this year. It is important to enable musicians to develop their craft and by helping them to buy their instruments we are ensuring they continue to grow and develop their skills. This scheme supports a very wide range of musicians including youth bands, ensembles, orchestras, community initiatives and resource organisations in every corner of the State.”
Music Network’s CEO Sharon Rollston said: “The Music Capital Scheme was established in 2008 and 413 awards have been made to date. Music Network’s mission is to make high quality live music accessible to communities throughout Ireland, as well as to support musicians to excel in the performance and creation of music. The range of instruments provided through the scheme continues to make a significant impact on the quality of, and access to, music making and live music performance across Ireland. We greatly appreciate the continued support of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media in funding this valuable Scheme.”
