Developing Artist Grants
2024 nominations
The Hnatyshyn Foundation is now accepting nominations from schools, training centres and teachers in the performing arts for young Canadian artists enrolled in qualified performing arts training programs for the 2024-2025 academic year. See details below!
To receive future calls for nominations, please make sure that you and your nominee(s) have subscribed to our mailing list.
About the Developing Artist Grant Program
In an effort to foster excellence in new talent, The Hnatyshyn Foundation assists the most promising young Canadian performing artists enrolled in post-secondary educational or training institutions.
Grants of $12,500 (formerly $10,000) are awarded annually in each of the following performing arts disciplines:
Classical music (orchestral instrument - strings)
Classical music (orchestral instrument - winds, brass, percussion)*
Classical music (piano)
Classical vocal performance
Contemporary dance
Jazz performance
Acting (English theatre)
Acting (French theatre)
*New discipline
This year, the discipline "classical music (orchestral instrument)" is being split into two categories: classical music (orchestral instrument - strings) and classical music (orchestral instrument - winds, percussions, brass). This change will mean an additional student in the performing arts will be able to access one of our grants. Please note, in the strings category, classical guitar is an eligible instrument.
Candidates for the grants must be nominated by their educational or training institution. An expert jury from the arts community adjudicates the performance work of the nominees.
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2024 call for nominations
Increased grant amounts
The grants, previously of $10,000 each, are now of $12,500 each.
Deadlines
The deadline for nominations from qualifying institutions and teachers for all disciplines is May 1st, 2024.
Nominated candidates for all disciplines except for French theatre will be able to submit their materials from the time they are nominated until May 20th, 2024.
For French theatre, the candidates will have until June 3rd to submit their materials.
To give candidates ample time to prepare their submission materials, we recommend that schools submit nominations as early as possible
Each institution may nominate up to two candidates, with the exception of Classical Vocal Performance (1 nominee)
Process
Nominations are done online by qualifying institutions and teachers. Each institution or teacher may nominate up to two (2) candidates in each discipline category, except in classical vocal performance, which is limited to one candidate per nominator. If you nominate more than one candidate, a separate form must be used.
Link to nominate the first candidate
Link to nominate a second candidate
On the first work day after we receive a nomination, we immediately give the candidate access to the online system to complete the application form. Please ask them to check their Junk mail.
Candidate applications include audition materials. You may work with your candidate to complete the online forms and upload audition videos.
Eligibility criteria
Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents. For undergraduate level grants, candidates must be nominated by the Canadian post-secondary institution at which they will be studying. For the graduate grant in classical voice, a candidate can be nominated by a university, training institution or recognized teacher anywhere in the world.
Adjudication process
Grants will be awarded on the basis of exceptional promise for a distinguished career in performance. Expert adjudicators in each discipline will evaluate the nominees based on audition on-line videos.
Use of the grants
The money can cover tuition, living expenses, books and materials required by the program of study.
Guidelines
Eligible level of studies and other requirements vary depending on the artistic discipline. See the guidelines for each discipline before registering online.
Classical Music - Orchestral Instrument - Strings
Note: classical guitar, while uncommon in orchestras, is an elgible instrument for this award.
Classical Music - Orchestral Instrument - Winds, Brass, Percussion
Acting - French Theatre ** see French website
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2023
Contemporary Dance
Julianna Bryson (they/them)
Studies at École de danse contemporaine de Montréal
Contemporary dance artist Julianna Bryson received both a formal classical training and an International Baccalaureate education in dance. Inspired by the challenge, vulnerability, and vastness of dance, Julianna pursues such qualities in their work.
Credit: Naomi Caulfield Photography
“The devotion which art and performance require is immense. Yet, it is something which I, amongst so many other artists, take part in because we must, because there is no other way for us to be a part of this world. It is a rare and incredible honour to be recognized for one’s devotion to their passion and I am immensely grateful for this opportunity.”
Grant in Classical Music (Piano)
Eric Guo (he/him)
Student at The Glenn Gould School of the Royal Conservatory in Toronto
With the help of this grant, Eric competed in the 2nd International Chopin Competition on Period Instruments in Warsaw, where he won first place! His performance earned him €25,000 as well as the award for Best Mazurka performance. He then embarked on a three-month concert tour of Europe and Asia, including Prague, Vienna, Dresden, Madrid, Brussels, Hamamatsu, and Tokyo.
Jolliffe Theatre in Kalamazoo, Michigan
Jolliffe Theatre in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Photographer: Chris McGuire.
“I believe my fate is music. When my mom would change my diaper, I wouldn’t stop moving, like my body was on fire. She attempted to talk and sing, but at last, she only managed to calm me down by borrowing cassettes from library with children’s songs, then symphonies. When I started to talk after 3 years old, I told my mom: I want to play piano. She felt I was too young, but I persisted. She finally bought me a piano at 4 years old, and I started lessons.”
“Li Wang, the most important teacher of my life, motivated me to audition Taylor Academy in 2014, and I entered at age 12. I began to be nurtured in a professional learning environment and surrounded by outstanding peers. I was immersed into the best music education in the world and generous support to study with the best teachers in classes, masterclasses, and play lots of concerts. I traveled to many international competitions and festivals to deepen my artistry, with eye-opening experiences to continue on this never-ending journey to ultimately to pursue the essence of music. I'm deeply grateful and honored to be the recipient of this year’s Hnatyshyn Foundation Developing Artist Grant! It provides me indispensable support to travel many international competitions and festivals, perform in worldwide venues, and gain invaluable expertise through working with more musicians who specialize in certain repertoires.”
Jazz Performance
Daniel Marmer (he/they)
Student at The Schulich School of Music at McGill University, Montreal
“I was two and a half when my parents put on the Beatles album Magical Mystery Tour in the car. From here started my obsession with music and guitars. I was incredibly privileged to have been put into piano lessons around this age and to have parents with hundreds of CDs and a deep passion for many genres of music. At thirteen I started taking guitar lessons at the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra School of Music with Bill Coon and David Blake. Bill gave me the tools to truly understand the guitar and provided deep insight into the jazz guitar tradition while remaining open to the modern sounds that intrigued me. David might be the only person outside of my family to fully watch me grow up, and his guidance as a musical and personal mentor has been invaluable. These two incredible musicians shaped my musical identity and continue to be some of my most cherished mentors, and I’m proud to be able to call them friends. It’s hard to fully describe the scope of their impact, but I’ll never forget them. At the same time, I enrolled in a jazz combo coached by Jodi Proznick, and she quickly became my third mentor and jazz mom. Jodi’s kindness and empathy engrained in me the core values that encourage me to also act with openness, curiosity, and inclusivity as a musician. Bill, David, and Jodi shaped my high school career and put me on the path that has led me to where I am today, and I could not be more thankful.”
Acting (English Theatre)
Isaiah Nembhard (he/him)
Student at The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University
Based in the soul of Toronto, Isaiah Nembhard is an actor, singer, and writer. Constantly surrounded by his culture, Isaiah draws upon his Jamaican heritage to give personal meaning to his art while being influenced by his family, dialect, and music to elevate his craft. His training at Toronto Metropolitan University includes writing and performing devised work, collaborative work utilizing free-form writing, and rigorous masque training, which led him to book his first job in Toronto’s 2023 Fringe Festival titled Levels: The Play, playing the role of Cyrus. As he progresses in his career, Isaiah strives to inspire future artists, viewing it as a way of giving back to the teachers and mentors who have guided him over the years.
“As I enter my third year of study, I can confidently do so without the burden of financial stress, allowing me to dedicate myself entirely to honing my craft and artistry. I've been granted the opportunity to wholeheartedly focus on implementing my practice to the best of my abilities, as I strive towards a successful acting career.”
Grant in Acting (French Theatre)
Zoé Ntumba (she/her)
Student at The National Theatre School of Canada, Montreal
Born in the bustling city of Kinshasa, Zoé Ntumba is a passionate young artist. At the age of 4, she came to Montreal and developed a real love of theater and acting during her school years. It was in 2021 that she decided to follow her passion by studying acting at the National Theatre School of Canada. Her academic background and insatiablSpectacle de 2e année ÉNT, 2023 “Ophélie dans l’eau” MES Robert Bellefeuille“e curiosity for learning are testament to her unwavering commitment to her art. She has participated in theatrical creation projects, exploratory laboratories conferences and artistic workshops with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. These experiences not only deepened her knowledge and honed her skills, they also establish valuable links with other artists. They gave her a concrete perspective on the issues and challenges facing the performing arts today.
As an artist of Congolese origin, Zoé recognizes the importance of the challenge of representation. That's why her mission is to inspire the young people who see themselves in her. She aspires to create art that reflects the beauty and diversity of our society, and thus inspire others to embrace their own artistic fiber.
Spectacle de 2e année ÉNT, 2023 “Ophélie dans l’eau” MES Robert Bellefeuille“
Zoé in Ophélie dans l’eau, directed by Robert Bellefeuille.
Photo: Maxime Côté.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Hnatyshyn Foundation for this scholarship. It represents much more than financial support for me. It is a true recognition of my efforts and commitment as an artist. It testifies to your confidence in my abilities and potential in the field of theatre. This mark of support is extremely precious and encourages me to persevere. Thanks to this scholarship, I'll be able to devote myself fully to my learning and development as an actress. I pledge to use this opportunity to continue to grow, to push my limits and share my passion with the public. Theater is a powerful tool capable of impacting minds and plays a learning role on so many human issues. My heartfelt thanks go to the faculty of the National Theatre School of Canada for their trust and support. Thank you to Frédéric Dubois and Éric Cabana, my excellent trainers. Thanks to Justin Simon and Mariko Stocchero, extraordinary acting partners. I am deeply honoured to have been chosen for this scholarship.”
Classical Music (Orchestral Instrument)
Isabella d’Éloïze Perron (she/her)
Student at The Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory, Toronto
Named Radio Canada’s Classical Revelation for 2020-21, classical violinist Isabella Perron is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of music. She is deeply committed to sharing her love of the arts with audiences and believes in its ability to connect people and inspire change.
Isabella had her solo debut at age 7 with the I Musici String Ensemble, and has since appeared with numerous orchestras around the world. Awards and distinctions include first prize at the National Music Festival of Canada (2014), first prize at the International Radio Competition for Young Musicians Concertino Praga (2015), and second prize at the Klein International String Competition (2015). During their 2017-2018 season, The Calgary Philharmonic named her as their “Emerging Artist”. In 2020, Isabella was awarded NYO’s Michael Measures Prize through the Canada Council for the Arts, and in 2021, she received second prize at the Eckhardt-Gramatté competition. The same summer, Isabella received the Grand Prize, as well as the audience choice award in the Orford Music competition.
Isabella has a particular interest in working with emerging young composers as she believes “they are our thread of connection from the past and into the future, directly speaking to the experience of living in the world today.” As part of her Radio Canada Classical Revelation award, she commissioned a work for piano and violin by Métis composer Gregory Borton from Hamilton, Ontario. Isabella and Meagan Milatz (piano) recorded Borton’s Sonata with Radio-Canada summer of 2021. Isabella strives to continue discovering and serving as a platform for young composers in Canada, with an emphasis on marginalized voices.
After sold-out performances across Canada in 2021 and 2022 performing Vivaldi and Piazzolla’s Four Seasons with the FILMharmonic Orchestra, Isabella returns for a North American tour spanning Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, New York City (debut at the Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall), Philadelphia, Boston, and more. Isabella plays on a Guadagnini 1768, generously on loan from CANIMEX.
Performing Piazzolla Four Seasons at the Maison Symphonique in Montreal.
Performing Piazzolla Four Seasons at the Maison Symphonique in Montreal. Photographer: Tam Luong
Juror and fellow violinist Yolanda Bruno congratulated Perron: “Excellent musicality and delivery of all three pieces - each with distinct characters and personality. Also enjoyed reading about what inspires you to share music, how it helps us to connect to our humanity. Congratulations on a stunning performance!”
Classical Vocal Performance
Charlotte Siegel (she/her)
Student at the Canadian Opera Company’s Ensemble Studio Program, Toronto
Charlotte Siegel is a soprano and singer/songwriter from Toronto. She is currently a member of the Canadian Opera Company's Ensemble Studio and made her debut as Second Lady in Mozart's Die Zauberflöte, and as Manon in Ian Cusson's Fantasma for the COC. She holds a Graduate Diploma and Masters in Opera and Voice from McGill University where she studied with Dominique Labelle and John Mac Master, and obtained her Bachelor of Classical Voice Performance from the University of Toronto studying with Frédérique Vézina.
Charlotte was a Buffalo/Toronto District winner for the 2021 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, made CBC’s 2021 list of “30 Hot Classical Musicians Under 30”, placed 3rd in the Canadian Opera Company's Ensemble Studio Competition 2019, and was also a finalist for the Atelier Lyrique National Auditions 2019 (Opéra de Montréal). During the pandemic she participated in Pacific Opera Victoria's online residency as part of their Civic Engagement Quartet. Upcoming Canadian Opera Company credits include: Musetta (La Bohème), Donna Elvira (Don Giovanni), Lead Hen/Innkeeper's Wife (The Cunning Little Vixen), and Handmaiden 1 (Medea). Past performance credits include: Beethoven's 9th with the MGSO in Montreal, Soprano Soloist in Bond and Beyond (National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa), Soprano Soloist in Spirit Song Symphony (Chamber Orchestra without Borders Winnipeg), Tosca Cover (Tosca), 2nd Apparition/Lady-in-Waiting (Macbeth), and Nella Cover (Gianni Schicci) for the COC, Rose Maurrant (Street Scene), Nancy (Albert Herring), and Elle (Knoxville: Summer of 1915), with Opera McGill. She also performed Micaëla (Carmen) with Summer Opera Lyric Theatre.
Charlotte is a co-founder and co-director of the Toronto based non-profit the Marigold Music Program, which aims to close the accessibility gap between marginalized youth and music education.
La Boheme (Canadian Opera Company)
La Boheme (Canadian Opera Company). Photographer: Michael Cooper.
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2023
Contemporary Dance
Tony Chong, Choreographer, dancer, artist
Joshua Beamish, Founder of MOVETHECOMPANY, Vancouver, and choreographer
Classical Music (Piano)
Dr. Michael Kim, Concert pianist and Dean of the Don Wright Faculty of Music, Western University
Kathleen Solose, Classical pianist and Professor, University of Saskatchewan
Jazz Performance
Petr Cancura, Saxophonist and Programming Director, Ottawa International Jazz Festival
Min Rager, Acclaimed jazz pianist and composer
Ted Warren, Private jazz instructor
Acting (English Theatre)
Lydie Dubuisson, Playwright, director and curator
Ravi Jain, Founder and co- artistic director Why Not Theatre, Toronto
Jenna Rodgers, Dramaturg, Playwrights Lab, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, and Founding Artistic Director, Chromatic Theatre, Calgary
Acting (French Theatre)
Mathieu Chouinard, co-Artistic Director, Satellite Theatre, Moncton
Lorraine Pintal, O.C., Actor, author, producer, and Artistic Director of the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, Montreal
Gabriel Plante, Playwright, director and producer
Classical Music (Orchestral Instrument)
Yolanda Bruno, Violinist, Toronto Symphony Orchestra
Susan Hoeppner, Soloist, chamber musician and performing and recording artist
Kimball Sykes, National Arts Centre Orchestra
Classical Vocal Performance
Spencer Britten, tenor, dancer and actor
Deantha Edmunds, Inuk soprano, soloist and recording artist
Dr. Jane Leibel, Professor of voice, Memorial University, Newfoundland
