Scottish talent to benefit from new fund launched in memory of Jim Diamond
A £25,000 music talent fund launched in memory of legendary Scottish musician, Jim Diamond, is looking for young Scottish performers to apply for its first ever grant awards.
The Jim Diamond Music Award, which is underwritten by The Hunter Foundation and administered by Radio Clyde Cash for Kids, is a programme that will award £5000 each year over the next five years.
Applications are now being sought for the first two awards of £2500 each from outstanding young people or groups of young people who are making their mark on the music industry.
Jim Diamond, who was one of Glasgow’s finest musicians and a long term supporter of Cash for Kids sadly passed away almost a year ago on the 8th of October 2015.
Sara Diamond, daughter of Jim Diamond said: “My dad was a committed supporter of Radio Clyde Cash for Kids and the important work it does in supporting young people in his home town of Glasgow. Combining his passion for helping those less fortunate than himself with his love of music has resulted in a musical award programme that he would have backed 100%. My mum, brother and I really hope the award will help the next generation of musical talent to fulfil their dreams.”
Lord McConnell, Chair of the Radio Clyde Cash for Kids Board of Trustees said: “Jim Diamond was a special friend to Cash for Kids. He was always ready to support our work because he wanted young people to have the best chance in life. He knew that sometimes people need help to climb over the hurdles put in their way. This award will give someone that chance. A chance to fulfil their dream. It is a fitting legacy for a special guy.”
Sir Tom Hunter said: “Jim was a musical legend and, very quietly, did an enormous amount for charity, so I can think of no better way to honour a man I am so proud to have been able to call my friend than through this award.”
The successful applicants will receive an award of £2,500 which they can use for studio time with a producer to record two tracks and promotion for touring and/or equipment.
They will also perform live at one of the Cash for Kids Christmas Lunches on either the 2nd December or 16th December at the Glasgow Hilton Hotel.
Applications are open as of Monday 10th October and the closing date for applications will be Sunday 30th October 2016.
Radio Clyde spoke to his son Lawrence Diamond who says it's a great fund...