Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 February 2019
233. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the potential funding streams that assist young students of music to travel to the United States of America to engage in workshops and programmes in order to develop their talents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7303/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraCulture Ireland offers support to Irish professional artists, arts organisations and international presenters to present and promote their work at key international venues and festivals, to develop new and diverse international audiences and markets, and to participate in international networking events. Culture Ireland also supports international showcases by presenting a range of artform showcases at key international arts markets, developing new platforms and building influence and opportunities for Irish artists at important arts industry events, and working with artists and presenting partners to co-ordinate and promote Irish participation in key international cultural events.
The Arts Council provides funding for a number of bursaries including a music bursary award to support artists to develop their art practice. Applicants are eligible to apply for such funding on reaching 18. For younger musicians, the National Concert Hall also has a number of competitive bursaries among which the Young Musician Award for String Players is open to young players between the ages of 13 -17. Details of this award may be obtained from the National Concert Hall.
My colleague the Minister for Education and Skills also operates a number of scholarships and bursaries for students studying abroad and may be aware of supports from which assistance could be provided.
