Funding

Jim Aitchison

Take it Away
On 2 July, Arts Council England launched 'Take it away', a new scheme aimed at making musical instruments more affordable, particularly for families and those on lower incomes. The objective of the scheme is to encourage more people to get involved in learning and playing music by removing the financial barrier that may have stopped them from doing this previously. The scheme allows individuals to apply for a loan of up to £2,000 for the purchase of any kind of musical instrument, and pay it back in nine monthly instalments (with a minimum 10% deposit), completely interest free. Following a successful six month pilot in the South East, Take it away loans will now be available through a network of almost 100 musical instrument retailers across the country that can provide assistance in choosing an instrument appropriate for a customer's needs. From electric guitars to classical harps, all instruments are included in the scheme and are encouraged by Arts Council England. Additionally, to help musical development and manage costs, where available equipment and services such as music stands, amplifiers, sheet music and tuition can also be included within the loan.
Take it away will be open to anyone over 18 (although terms and conditions apply), but the scheme will specifically be targeted at three priority groups:
People buying an instrument for the first time
People buying an instrument for a young person
People on lower than average incomes (£22,500)
www.takeitaway.org.uk

Escalator
Escalator is an Arts Council England initiative which aims to find, support and invest in regionally based performing artists. Covering artists at different stages of their careers in all areas of the performing arts, it enables artists to realise their potential in producing high quality professional work.
What's on offer?
Coaching awards of between £250 and £1000 for evaluation and feedback from an expert
Development plans to evaluate and identify key issues
Access to a network of regional venues to support and promote new work
The Pulse festival - development of an annual showcase of new work
Showcasing and exporting of work outside the region
For more information contact Cat Moore on 01223 578000, email escalator@junction.co.uk

Escalator Visual Arts
If you are an artist based in the East of England, at a pivotal stage in your career, and want a credible context in which to develop your work, then Escalator Visual Arts could help you on your way. "We are looking for promising artists with the potential to reach the top." Escalator Visual Arts is an Arts Council England, East initiative led by Commissions East in partnership with the region's visual arts organisations and galleries. It aims to discover, support and invest in talent. You can find out more about Escalator Visual Arts by contacting Commissions East on 01223 356882 or by visiting http://www.commissionseast.org.uk/