IMRO

The very high costs associated with studying at prominent international music institutions raises significant obstacles for most Irish students offered places at such universities. The introduction of this award eases the burden significantly. Ongoing support and mentoring from the bursary selection team means that students are in a prime position to maximise their study and networking opportunities.

 

"As we head into year six, I am delighted to note the progress in the work and careers of the recipients to date and would encourage any students to come forward for the 2010 awards” outlined Bill Whelan at the announcement of bursary deadlines for 2010.

 

“Receiving the financial support which enabled me to study Screen Composition at the Royal College of Music in London in 2006 was just one of the incredible privileges that came my way through being a Bill Whelan Bursary recipient. Along with the respect that has come from being supported by Bill, I can barely describe the extent to which his sustained encouragement and enthusiasm has accelerated my career and personal development as a composer, both at and away from my writing desk. Having studied and worked alongside so many 'emerging' composers also fighting for successful careers, I am constantly aware of the gift the Bill Whelan Bursary has been to me, and have yet to hear of a funding scheme that can offer anything comparable" added bursary recipient Anna Rice.

 

Bill Whelan, best known as composer of Riverdance The Show, a Grammy Award winner for 'Best Musical Show Album', has worked extensively in theatre, television and film. His orchestral works include the specially commissioned piece, The Seville Suite (1992) and The Spirit Of Mayo (1993). His work in international film includes Lamb which he co-composed with Van Morrison, his emotive score for the Jim Sheridan/Terry George film Some Mother's Son and the original score for the film version of Brian Friel's award winning Dancing At Lughnasa which starred Meryl Streep. His production and arranging credits include U2, Van Morrison, Kate Bush, Richard Harris and The Dubliners.

 

Full details and online application forms are available at: http://www.imro.ie/content/bill-whelan-bursary

 

Closing date for submissions 28th May 2010

 

For further information contact:
Keith Johnson, Director of Marketing & Membership (IMRO)
Tel: 01-6614844 Fax: 01-6763125
E-mail: keith.johnson@imro.ie