Arts Excellence Awards
Dame Malvina Major Foundation
Funding
$10,000 NZD
Deadline
10 May 2026
Location
NZ
About
Annual awards of $10,000 each supporting young NZ classical performers aged 18–30 to pursue tuition, coaching, and study opportunities.
The Arts Excellence Awards support young New Zealanders of outstanding ability in the performing arts who are preparing for a professional career in classical music or performance.
For 2026, three national awards of $10,000 will be distributed among successful applicants. Awards can be used for tuition across all aspects of classical performance development — including university study fees, coaching, workshops, masterclasses, and audition tours. A contribution towards fees at overseas institutions, travel, and/or accommodation may also be considered at the discretion of the adjudicators.
Eligibility
- Aged 18–30 as at 1 January 2026
- New Zealand citizen (not necessarily resident in NZ at the time of applying)
- Must have resided in NZ or completed a substantial proportion of training and artistic development in NZ
- The project or study must begin within 12 months of receiving the award
Applicants based in Canterbury will automatically be entered for the Cecily Maccoll High Achiever Award – Canterbury.
How to apply
Complete the online application form and include two signed references from specialists in your field. Reference forms are available to download from the Foundation's website. Applications close Sunday 10 May 2026, and applicants will be notified of outcomes by Wednesday 17 June 2026.
Taranaki funding
Thanks to the Toi Foundation, the Taranaki Committee offers additional funding for Taranaki-based youth in the performing arts twice yearly (closing 31 March and 30 September). Categories include Secondary School students (12–18 yrs), Groups and Organisations, and Elite Tertiary level performers.
Nancy and Ron Grant Arts Excellence Award
An additional award of up to $5,000 is available to South Island applicants who are classical vocalists or instrumentalists, allocated at the discretion of the Christchurch Committee.
Recipients are required to keep their award confidential until announced, participate in publicity and acknowledge the award in biographies for five years, and submit a full report on completion of their project.