Councils gear up for young musos

By Shaun Inguanzo
YOUNG musicians are set to benefit from a series of State Government grants allowing local councils to build a bank of instruments and equipment.
The budding musicians will be allowed access to the equipment, most likely through their local FreeZA groups.
Youth Affairs Minister James Merlino announced that grant applications were open when he visited The Castle youth music facility in Dandenong last week.
The Castle is home to the Muso Network, Greater Dandenong’s own FReeZA group.
“The goal of the Music Equipment Grants program is to provide young people under 26 years of age with access to music equipment to support them in developing their skills and increase participation in the music industry. Many young Victorians aspire to become successful musicians and this program will allow them to become the best they can be and help them get that first big break,” Mr Merlino said.
He said local governments could submit an Expression of Interest for grants of up to $10,000 to establish a music equipment bank.
“This bank of music equipment can include anything from instruments, to mobile staging, PA systems and CD recording equipment, and it will all be managed in partnership with young people in the local community,” he said.
Mr Merlino said the grants would be aligned with the Victoria Rocks – A Place to Rock initiative that will identify community venues and public halls that can be used by young people for rehearsals, training and the staging music events.
“The Music Equipment Grants will build on existing local initiatives and help local communities to support young people, including emerging artists, to access specialised equipment for music-related activities,” he said.