Ryan O’Meara TD welcomes €100,000 fund to boost music education access
The deadline for applications is 10 April 2025
Local TD Ryan O’Meara has welcomed today’s announcement from the Minister for Education regarding the opening of applications for a €100,000 music education grant fund.
The funding will support organisations that provide music education but have limited or no access to other forms of public funding. Grants can be used to cover costs such as music classes, instruments, and essential equipment.
Welcoming the initiative, Deputy O’Meara stated, “This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations to expand access to music education, ensuring that more young learners can express themselves and develop their creativity. I encourage all eligible organisations to apply for this funding so that children and young people can benefit from the immense value that music education brings.
“Community-based music programmes do far more than teach music. They provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can build confidence and teamwork skills, all of which are invaluable for their personal development.”
The Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary Scheme has already benefited a diverse range of music groups, including children’s choirs, concert bands, brass bands, folk orchestras, and uilleann pipers.
It specifically targets smaller organisations that work in non-mainstream music education and community music initiatives, particularly those serving socio-economically disadvantaged groups.
Applications for the scheme are now open, and organisations interested in applying must download the application form, complete all sections, and submit it by email to [email protected].
The deadline for applications is 10 April 2025, after which submissions will be reviewed by the Committee for Non-Mainstream, Department of Education-funded Music Education.
Concluding, Deputy O’Meara said, “I will continue to advocate for further investment in arts and music education, ensuring that every child in our constituency, and beyond, has the opportunity to explore their talents and engage in creative expression.”