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Help Musicians Re-opens £10,000 Fund for Promising Emerging Jazz Performers

Music charity Help Musicians has opened the 2019 application process for its £10,000 jazz fund, the renowned Peter Whittingham Jazz Award.

Published: 06 September 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM

Open to jazz musicians from all walks of life, the Peter Whittingham Jazz Award seeks out the most exciting and innovative emerging jazz artists who have the creativity, ambition and commitment to develop a sustainable career in jazz.

Musicians at a tipping point in their career invited to apply

As part of Help Musicians’ commitment to accessibility, the charity encourages applications from those who are currently underrepresented in jazz such as women, people with disabilities and individuals from black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Jazz musicians, either solo or in groups of up to eight, who are at a tipping point in their career, are invited to apply via the website by Monday 14 October. Auditions will be held in November 2019, and an independent panel of jazz experts, along with representatives of Peter Whittingham’s family, will select awardees for the fund.

Funding for a creative project of the winner’s choice

Now in its 29th year, The Peter Whittingham Jazz Award offers the winner £5,000 to undertake a creative project of their choice, that will support their creative and professional development. The award can fund recording, filming, touring, performances, mentoring, collaboration and promotion.

A further £5,000 is available for up to three rising talents through The Peter Whittingham Jazz Development Awards.

The award is in its 29th year

An expert in survival medicine, Peter Whittingham was also a pianist who enjoyed the music of Gershwin, Porter, Sondheim, Bernstein, Shearing and Peterson. After his death in 1987, his family set up this award in his memory and their connection with the Award continues.

Over the past 29 years, the Award has been given to many now-leading jazz musicians, including Help Musicians ambassador Soweto Kinch, Errollyn Wallen MBE, Dave O’Higgins, Gwilym Simcock and Roller Trio.

Need advice on completing a funding application? Check out our advice page for some top tips.

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