A new fund established by one of the Eastern Bay’s most dedicated music advocates is set to help inspire the next generation of musicians.

Applications are open for the EBOP Music Development Fund, created by New Zealand Order of Merit recipient Warner Haldane to help aspiring musicians aged 10 to 25 develop their skills, experience and passion for music.

Haldane has a long history of involvement with music institutions, including the Whakatāne Community Orchestra and Whakatāne Music Society.

He said he established the Music Development Fund because he was continually impressed by the talent coming out of the Eastern Bay and wanted to create opportunities to help nurture that talent.

“You always have to look forward and ask where the musicians of the future are coming from,” Haldane said.

“That’s why we need to support young musicians.”

The fund, administered by the Eastern Bay Community Foundation, will distribute three grants of up to $500 each in its first year.

Community Foundation manager Angela Jackson said the grants had been intentionally designed to be flexible.

“They can be used for anything that will aid a young musician to develop their potential – that could mean helping someone purchase an instrument, pay for lessons, attend workshops or cover travel costs associated with performances and competitions.”

Jackson has worked closely with Haldane to shape the fund and said his belief that music offered benefits well beyond performance and achievement had been central to its development.

“Whether someone goes on to become a professional musician or simply develops a lifelong enjoyment of music, there are huge benefits.

Music creates fellowship, connection and a sense of belonging, and it can play an important role in mental wellbeing.”

Haldane’s own musical journey began being surrounded by music at home and attending chapel services at boarding school in England.

That early fascination would eventually lead to a lifelong passion for the organ and a significant contribution to the Eastern Bay’s musical community.

Haldane hopes the fund will help young people develop a lifelong love of music, while also encouraging others to support causes they care about.

“Working together, we can support our community,” he said.

“I’d love to see others get behind this fund and help create opportunities for future generations of musicians.”

Applications for the grants are open throughout July.

For more information visit www.ebcf.nz/apply