The fund targets self-employed, freelance musicians and stage artists of all nationalities who would have taken part in one or more events at the Elbphilharmonie or Laeiszhalle during the period March 13 to April 30 2020, but which were cancelled in the wake of a general decree issued by the City of Hamburg. Apart from individual musicians, self-employed musicians who are members of an ensemble, can apply for support. “I am delighted that we have launched this relief fund jointly, swiftly and without bureaucracy. A low six-figure amount is available, with which we can start immediately,” said Christoph Lieben-Seutter, General Director of the Elbphilharmonie and Laeiszhalle. Recipients receive EUR 2,500 maximum regardless of how many concerts were cancelled.
The HamburgMusik gGmbH, NDR and Konzertdirektion Dr. Rudolf Goette, the three largest organisers of concerts in the Elbphilharmonie and the Laeiszhalle, have set up the “Elbphilharmonie Support Fund” to help freelance musicians and stage artists hit by concert cancellations amid the corona crisis, a press release said Wednesday (April 8, 2020). The fund’s resources stem from concertgoers who have waived their right to ticket refunds. Other organisers are invited to participate.
Target group
Support young artists
“The concert cancellations required in recent weeks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus can threaten the existence of young artists and independent ensembles in particular,” said Burkhard Glashoff, Managing Director of Konzertdirektion Dr. Rudolf Goette. Online applications for the Elbphilharmonie Funds can be submitted on www.elbphilharmonie.de. A steering committee consisting of Lieben-Seutter, Glashoff, Goette and Achim Dobschall, Head of the Orchestra, Choir and Concerts Division at NDR, will decide on the allocation of the funds.
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