After a hectic six weeks of fundraising, the keys of Douglas Lilburn's former home were today handed to the Lilburn Residence Trust. The house and quiet bushy surroundings in Thorndon Wellington will now become New Zealand 's first residence for composers.

Professor, Les Holborow, chair of the Lilburn Residence Trust commented, “Knowing that the house will remain in the music community is a tremendous relief. Lilburn lived there for over 40 years and so the property carries a great deal of cultural history. We are now looking forward to continuing that in the coming years.”

Set a task of raising over $275,000 before the end of July, contributions have been received from friends, family, musicians and many generous individuals from all around New Zealand . Together with a grant of $150,000 from Lotteries Environment and Heritage Committee, the purchase price of $427,000 was almost met by the deadline. Only about $35,000 remains to be raised, and at present this is being managed through a short-term no interest loan from a generous member of the composing community.

Proceeds from the sale of the house, as instructed in the composer's will, go to the Lilburn Trust, which Douglas Lilburn established in 1984 to preserve and promote New Zealand music. This will increase the funds in that trust by nearly one third, meaning that a greater number of projects should receive funding from this source in the future.

Professor Holborow concluded, “During the campaign we have come to know many generous and sympathetic people, whose support has been very important to our success. We look forward to their continued involvement in the Residence.”
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Contacting the Lilburn Residence Trust

Postal Address: c/- PO Box 10042, Wellington, New Zealand
Email: Lilburn Residence Trust
Phone Enquiries: Centre for NZ Music, Wellington - (04) 801 8602
Fax: (04) 801 8604
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