The Committee was launched in 2007 and offers grants categories that are earmarked for local performers in varying stages of their development.  The committee seeks to support predominantly young Taranaki performers and provide educational and training opportunities specifically designed to assist and develop the skills of Taranaki youth associated with the performing arts.

The grants are open to talented youth from anywhere in the Taranaki District.

Dame Malvina is thrilled by the formation and aims of the committee and the very generous support of the TSB Community Trust.

Three Grant types are available:  Secondary School, Groups and Organisations, Elite Tertiary  level.

Applications close annually on 31 March and 30 September.

For further information and how to apply: The Dame Malvina Major Foundation, Taranaki Regional Committee, PO Box 146, New Plymouth,Tel 06 758 0956, Fax 06 757 5081

Website Taranaki Application Form (48k pdf)

Dame Malvina and Leigh Kereopa, Taranaki Awards

Grant Recipient 2007

Leigh Kereopa

Leigh is an accomplished Taranaki pianist and recent graduate of the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, National University  of  Singapore, where he attained a Bachelor of Music (Hons).  In September he began the Master of Music degree  at the Peabody Institute of the John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland (USA).

During his secondary education at New Plymouth Boys High School Leigh cultivated his musical career gaining numerous awards including the 2002 Taranaki Young Musician of the Year, first prize in the 2005 Muriel May Scholarship Competition held in New Plymouth.  In 2007 he placed second in the Natonal Concerto Competition, performing with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.  He has also participated in master classes with various internationally acclaimed artists.