Nominations are now open for two of Australia’s most sought after jazz scholarship programs which recognise the next generation of top jazz performers.
Generations in Jazz’s James Morrison Jazz Scholarship and GIJ Vocal Scholarship, both valued at $10,000, are now open for outstanding young performers to aid their ongoing musical development.
The James Morrison Jazz Scholarship, now in its 33rd year, provides $10,000 each year to an emerging artist, aged under 19 years, to assist in the development of their musical careers. The award is sponsored by Melbourne philanthropist Andrea Evans and family, recognising the late Ron Evans who had a lifelong love of jazz and strong desire to encourage and foster musical talent. Generations in Jazz Chair Peter Roberts said the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship had launched the careers of many critically acclaimed artists including saxophonists’ Kellie Santin and Jamie Ohlers, Phillip Stack from Thirsty Merc fame and notably Limestone Coast musician Adam Page.
“The alumni of the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship include some of Australia’s most respected musicians who have gone on to national and international fame,” Mr Roberts said. “The Generations in Jazz event is delighted to showcase generations of talented performers on stage, inspiring our thousands of participants to seek to achieve a music career in whatever path excites them.”
Mr Roberts said the alumni for the $10,000 Generations in Jazz Vocal Scholarship, open to performers under 21 years of age, was equally as impressive. This award encourages the development of jazz vocalists, recognising outstanding achievement in their genre.
“The GIJ Vocal Scholarship is a prestigious award which opens career gateways like no other,” Mr Roberts said. “The previous winner lists feature the A-list of Australian jazz performers. The inaugural winner of this award in 2004 was Megan Washington who has gone on to be a nationally adored ARIA winning artist. 2009 winner Sarah McKenzie, a singer, pianist and composer, also claimed an ARIA award in 2012 for her album Close Your Eyes whilst 2014 winner Olivia Chindamo has forged a celebrated US career.”
Six finalists will be selected for both the James Morrison Jazz and Vocal Scholarships with the performers to be adjudicated during the May 6-8 event. Mr Roberts said selection of the finalists would be made on display of an outstanding level of musical ability, accomplishment in musical performance and on a personal needs basis.
“We are grateful to be returning in 2022 to allow the next generation of jazz performers to have one-on-one tuition and feedback from an exclusive cohort of highly respected musicians and educators as part of the GIJ weekend celebrations,” Mr Roberts said. “These past winners look back fondly on how this experience built their confidence and passion for following their musical career pathway.”
Applications for both scholarships close on 15 March 2022.
To apply visit www.generationsinjazz.com.au
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