We are thrilled to announce a new award “The KEECT Master of Music Therapy Award” sponsored by Gattung Foundation and supported by the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust (RMTT). The purpose of the award is to improve diversity within the music therapy profession by opening doors for Māori and Pasifika women.

Music Therapy is the planned use of music to assist in the healing and growth of people with emotional, intellectual, physical or social challenges.   A career in Music Therapy offers challenge, opportunity, and distinctive rewards to those with a strong musical background interested in working with people of all ages with various disabilities.  Music therapists have extensive training in music, psychology and human development.

The recipient of The KEECT Master of Music Therapy Award will receive $8,000 for one year of full-time study, and if they are in their second year of study, it will also include a minimum 750 hour placement with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre.  Raukatauri is committed to supporting students on placement into employment and intends to extend that commitment to recipients of this award.

RMTT Clinical and Centre Director Jen Glover (left) said she has been disheartened by the lack of Māori music therapists working in Aotearoa.

“Our experience in expanding to areas such as the Far North and the Eastern Bay of Plenty in recent years has made it clear to us that there are passionate wāhine musicians living around the country who would make amazing music therapists if they could be supported in their studies,” she said.
“We’re confident that the award will make a real difference in increasing the diversity of our field, and improving access to music therapy services around the country.”

Gattung Foundation spokeswoman Angela Gattung (pictured below left with her sister and co-founder Theresa Gattung) said the foundation was born out of a shared spirit to enable others and make real change.

“We support causes that touch us deeply and make a tangible difference – especially for Māori and Pasifika women,” she said.
“The aim of the scholarship is to inspire Māori and Pasifika wāhine musicians to consider taking up a career in music therapy, filling the need for more music therapists, whilst increasing diversity in the profession.”

The Kate Edger Trust feels this award aligns beautifully with namesake Kate Edger’s own skill and passion for music.  She was a gifted singer and played the piano and violin, performing publically at concerts with her siblings.  Her own children were also noted for their ‘gifted musical abilities’.

Full-time wāhine students, preferably of Māori and Pasifika ethnicity, studying a Master of Music Therapy can apply for the scholarship.

Applications for the award close on January 31, 2023.