Cork venues secure funding from grassroots music support scheme

Six music venues in Cork are set to receive funding of up to €15,000 as part of the Grassroots Music Venues Support Scheme.

The recipients, announced this week by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, include Connolly’s of Leap, Coughlan’s Bar in Cork city, Dali in Cork city, DeBarra’s Folk Club in Clonakilty, Levis’ Bar in Ballydehob, and The White Horse in Ballincollig.

A total of 33 venues across Ireland have been awarded under the €500,000 fund, which was established to support grassroots music venues in showcasing local emerging talent.

Close to 100 applications were received from a wide range of late-night venues including pubs, nightclubs, and theatres.

Embrace

Announcing the scheme awardees, Mr O’Donovan urged music lovers across the country to “embrace the resource of their local venue” to continue supporting grassroots venues.

“Our grassroots music venues play a vital role in nurturing emerging musicians and providing them with an opportunity to hone their talent,” said Mr O’Donovan.

“It is very important that we recognise their contribution to the music industry, particularly given the challenges these venues face.

“I look forward to seeing the diversity of genres and talent that will reach new audiences as a result of this funding over the months ahead.

“I’d also encourage music lovers from across the country to embrace the resource of their local venue and support artists in the early stages of their careers.”

Opportunity

Fine Gael Cork North Central TD Colm Burke said that the funding provides a “great opportunity for musicians” across the county.

“Giving people a start in their music career and supporting local businesses are hand-in-glove priorities for Fine Gael, and I look forward to continuing my work with minister O’Donovan to expand and grow supports like these for the local area,” said Mr Burke.

“This is a great opportunity for musicians who are starting out in Cork in their playing careers to get the exposure and experience of performing in their local venue.”