Foundation launched to support NZ composers

Mon, 11 Oct 2004

Foundation launched to support New Zealand composers

The Edwin Carr Foundation which will offer annual scholarships to New Zealand composers was launched in Auckland this morning by the Associate Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon. Judith Tizard.

Edwin Carr was one of New Zealand's most significant composers. He left only a draft will on his death in March 2003, aged 76, which made it clear that he wanted to support promising young musicians.

The Edwin Carr Foundation was established as a result of discussion with people in the music industry and Edwin Carr's friends and family.

Administered by Creative New Zealand, the Foundation has two objectives - to commemorate Edwin Carr and acknowledge his contribution to New Zealand music and to financially assist outstanding New Zealand composers.

Chief Executive of Creative New Zealand Elizabeth Kerr said Creative New Zealand is honoured to be able to administer the Foundation. "We're committed to strengthening New Zealand's arts sector and one way is by providing professional development opportunities for the art sector."

"This is the first time funding dedicated to the professional development of composers has been made available. Composers of any age and at any stage of their careers may apply. The amount available each year may vary and will generally be used to support one or two scholarships."

Edwin Carr was also a teacher, conductor and musician. His work has been performed and recorded internationally. His compositions included commissions for the New Zealand Broadcasting Orchestra, the New Zealand Chamber Music Federation, the New Zealand Embassy in Bonn, Musica Viva, Radio New Zealand and the Australia Council for the Arts.

He also taught at Victoria University, the New South Wales State Conservatorium of Music, Suffolk Rural Music School and Civic College, Ipswich.

ENDS

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