- Yamaha Drum Kits (both acoustic and electronic)
- High Quality Cymbals (including Paiste cymbals)
- Concert Percussion Instruments (such as timpani, xylophones, and snare drums)
- Drum and Percussion Accessories
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We are looking for schools that demonstrate a passion and drive for music education and a vision for how this grant could make a real impact.
Yamaha Music Australia is committed to making music education accessible to more schools across the country. Unfortunately, not all Australian schools offer continuous music programs, and these grants aim to bridge that gap.
Our mission is to empower schools to foster musical talent and provide students with inspiring educational experiences. By equipping schools with state-of-the-art Yamaha instruments, we help nurture creativity, collaboration, and a passion for music.
Music-making has also been shown to boost happiness and build social connections. As the world’s largest musical instrument manufacturer, Yamaha leads the conversation on the value of music in education, encouraging schools to expand their programs and inspire others to follow their example.
Applying for Yamaha’s 2025 Great Start Grant is simple and designed to help us truly understand your school’s unique needs. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Share your story: Upload photos or videos showcasing your school’s current drum and percussion setup. Whether you have no gear, outdated instruments, or just need repairs, this is your chance to tell your story visually.
- Share Your Vision: In a short written response, explain how this grant would transform your school’s music program. Be specific about the challenges you face and how new equipment—Yamaha drum kits, cymbals, concert percussion, or accessories—would make a difference.
- How Can We Help: Let us know what gear you’re asking for. This will help us tailor the grant package to your school’s unique requirements.
APPLICATIONS CLOSE APRIL 15, 2025
Let Yamaha help you take your school's music program to the next level!
2025 Great Start Grant Details
In 2025, Yamaha Music Australia is excited to offer four grants—each valued at $10,000 RRP—designed to transform drum and percussion programs in schools across Australia. These grants aim to further improve access to high-quality music education and inspire the next generation of musicians.
What Does the Grant Package Include?
- Yamaha Drum Kits (both acoustic and electronic)
- High Quality Cymbals (including Paiste cymbals)
- Concert Percussion Instruments (such as timpani, xylophones, and snare drums)
- Drum and Percussion Accessories
Alternatively, the grant can be applied as a subsidy toward the purchase of a higher-value Yamaha Music Australia product. For instance, a school might use the grant toward the acquisition of a 5-octave marimba, combining it with other raised funds.
If non-drum or percussion products could support the growth of your program, these may also be included in your application—for example, headphones to enhance the use of an electronic drum kit.
Tips for Success
To help you prepare a strong application, we encourage you to read through our Tips for Success article. This guide offers valuable advice on showcasing your school’s vision and needs effectively.
Additional Information
For more details, including selection criteria, the application process, and the schedule, please review our terms and conditions.
2024 Grant Winners
- Brabham Primary School - WA
- Chatham High School - NSW
- Devonport Christian School - TAS
- FAME (Flexible Accredited Meaningful Engagement) - SA
- Giant Steps Tasmania - TAS
- Heaton Public School - NSW
- Melbourne Indigenous Transition School - VIC
- Merri River School - VIC
- Mudgeeraba Special School - QLD
- Rocky River Public School - NSW
Past Grant Recipients
- 2024 Grant Recipients
- 2023 Grant Recipients Northern Peninsula Area State College
- 2022 Grant Recipients Greenvale Secondary College
- 2021 Grant Recipients Sunshine College
- 2020 Grant Recipients Katherine High, Croydon Community and Picnic Creek State Schools
- 2019 Grant Recipients Ravenshoe State School
- 2018 Grant Recipients Coomealla High School
- 2017 Grant Recipients: Apollo Bay P-12 College