THE Rotary Club of Melbourne has launched the Rotary Victorian Music Scholarship, a new initiative designed to support Victoria’s most promising emerging musicians.
With a total prize pool of $10,000, this initiative provides financial support for tuition, instrument purchases, travel for performances, and other essential career-building expenses.
Open to all Australian citizens residing in Victoria, the selection process focuses on musical talent, artistic potential, financial need, and dedication to community engagement.
Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident under the age of 30, demonstrate active involvement in the music community with a strong commitment to furthering their music career, and be able to provide evidence of financial need and at least two references from music professionals.
The three scholarships on offer include one prize of $5000, one prize of $3000, and one prize of $2000.
Arts Committee Member at Rotary Melbourne and Director of Hello Music Studio Karen Kim stressed the importance of budding artists having access to funds, drawing on her own experience as a scholarship receiver.
“If I hadn’t received a music scholarship at a young age, I may not have had the opportunity to establish my music school and touring productions,” she said.
“The initial support encouraged me to thrive and share the gift of music with others.”
International Opera Performer and Teacher Daniel Szesiong Todd echoed Ms Kim’s words, acknowledging how the scholarships had the potential to alleviate financial stress that many artists endured.
“Financial assistance is vital for early-career artists, who often have to balance part time work with practice and development,” he said.
“Scholarships like this help alleviate that stress, giving artists breathing space. It affords them dedicated time to focus on their creativity and artistic practice.”
Applications close April 30, with shortlisted applicants announced in May. The showcase and award ceremony will be held at the Sofitel Melbourne in June. To apply, visit https://rotaryclubofmelbourne.org.au/music.
