Five Minutes with Melbourne Recital Centre

Having recently launched the Local Artist Appeal Programme to support local artists during this challenging time, the team at Melbourne Recital took some time to talk about what they do and share their thoughts on Arts Philanthropy. 

Having recently celebrated Melbourne Recital Centre’s 10th Anniversary in 2019, what do you think the centre’s greatest achievement to date is?

Making its mark in Melbourne, Australia, and the world as a great place for musicians to make music, and for audiences to share that experience.

12th Birthday Gala Concert (Photo by Michael Christian)

 It was great to hear about how the centre stepped in to support artists in a difficult time with the Local Artists Appeal. Tell us more about the programme and how it works!

When we discovered that we were going to have to close our doors in March 2020, one of the first decisions we made was to make a commitment to support our independent local artists through this crisis. In doing this, we knew that we would need the support of our audience and donor community, and so we launched the Performer Support Fund. We were truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our donor and audience communities, who rallied behind us to contribute over $200,000 in donations throughout the year, which allowed us to make a financial payment to each and every one of our local artists whose scheduled concert was affected by our closure. By the end of 2020 we had made payments in lieu of more than 130 cancelled concerts, and in addition created nearly 100 new performance and employment opportunities for local artists, through our digital, and online Learning and Access programmes

Although we are overjoyed that we are now beginning to return to presenting live concerts once again, there is much uncertainty that lies ahead for the live music industry. In 2021, we are seeking to continue our pledge to support our community of local artists through the 2021 Local Artist Appeal. Where 2020’s campaign was born out of a response to a crisis, this year we are focused on looking forward and instilling our community of artists with confidence in the future.

This year, we are seeking to raise an ambitious target of $1million, which will directly support our diverse community of local artists by: 

• Guaranteeing performance and commissioning fees in an ever-changing environment 
• Engaging local artists to deliver Learning and Access programs, which reach people of all ages across Victoria, regardless of socioeconomic or physical barriers 
• Creating additional employment for local artists beyond the live performance program, including recording and digital broadcast opportunities 
• Helping to make the Centre’s 2021 concert season accessible to as many people as possible while the Centre’s revenue streams are affected by uncertainty and changing restrictions 

We are thrilled to say that since launching the Local Artist Appeal at our 12th birthday concert in February this year we have already received over $300,000 in donations! If you would like to join our growing community of supporters and make a donation to support local artists, please visit:https://melbourne-recital-centre.giveeasy.org/2021-local-artist-appeal

Melbourne Recital Centre (Photo by Mark Chew)

What do you think is the role of arts centres like Melbourne Recital Centre in the advocacy for Arts Philanthropy?

Organisations like Melbourne Recital Centre play a crucial role as a hub at the centre of a broad musical ecosystem, representing a diverse array of musical styles, genres, and communities. Because we work with so many different types of artists and ensembles, at all career stages, our donors are able to direct their support to benefit a community of independent artists who so often fall between the cracks.

The Classical music world has a long and established tradition of philanthropic support – which remains vital – and our goal is to leverage on our diverse programmes to encourage a similar culture and understanding of philanthropy among diverse audiences for diverse genres of music.

The pandemic has disrupted the plans of many businesses around the world. Share with us some key insights or strategies on how the centre has adapted and transformed itself during this time.

Moving our Learning and Access program and many of our performances online and making them accessible to more people no matter where they live. Working closely with the Victorian Government to build a path forward. Sticking to our values. Communicating frequently and transparently with our community of audiences, artists and employees.

COVID Safe (Photo by Michael Christian)

If Melbourne Recital Centre was an animal, what would it be and why?

A Shetland pony – strong, determined, small, friendly, suitable for all ages

Use 3 words to describe what a first-time visitor’s experience to the centre would be like.

Inspiring, awesome, unforgettable.

Sweet Summer Suite