Arts groups set to receive £600k from new funding

More than £600k funding is set to support Horsham District arts organisations.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) announced on April 2 more than 2,700 cultural and creative organisations are to receive a share of more than £400 million in grants and loans as part of a vital financial boost from the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

In Horsham District, West Sussex Music Trust will receive £535,854, The 99 Club Limited will receive £50,000 and BMG Live Ltd will get £27,000. More than £300 million of the has been awarded in grants through Arts Council England (ACE), Historic England, National Lottery Heritage Fund and the British Film Institute.

Andrew Bernardi, violinist director at BMG Live Ltd, said: “We are very grateful for the opportunity and responsibility awarded to Bernardi Music Group by ACE and DCMS.

“We are greatly looking forward to inspiring connecting and supporting musicians to galvanise our communities through music at an international level from the grass roots of Sussex, and as we return to sustainable performances.

“Particular focus will be on innovative digital and live delivery of our two concert series Shipley Arts Festival in its 21st year, our LeonardsLee Bernardi Music Group Summer Concert series, and the work with do for young people through our String Academy.

“We will also be deepening our international roots from our Horsham Sussex base and extending our reach through digital and live innovations with the Alzheimers Society and community.”

Chichester Festival Theatre is set to receive £953,264 from the new funding.