The Lilburn Residence Trust has 10 days to raise just over $75,000 to ensure that Douglas Lilburn's former home in central Wellington becomes New Zealand 's first composer residence.

Since the Trust had its offer for the Thorndon property confirmed in mid- June composers, artists, music lovers, conservationists, old friends and family from all over New Zealand have been contributing to the campaign. With a major grant of $150,000 from Lotteries Environment and Heritage Committee the task of raising just over $425,000 had a flying start. This was further boosted by a substantial gift of $100,0000 from the Prior Family, long-time friends of the composer. A further $75,000 still needs to be raised.

Chair of the Lilburn Residence Trust, Professor Les Holborow commented, “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from people all over the country. However we are not quite there yet, and we would encourage anyone who has an interest in making a contribution to contact us immediately.”

Once the purchase is completed, the Lilburn Residence Trust will furnish the house before welcoming Gillian Whitehead as the first Composer in Residence.

Gillian is spending a year in Wellington as NZ School of Music- Creative NZ Composer in Residence. She will be taking part in activities at the School of Music while completing various compositions for national performing organisations and an opera project with filmmaker and fellow Artist Laureate, Gaylene Preston. The Lilburn Residence Trust plans also to gather a collection of Douglas Lilburn's music, which will be held at the house. From time to time the Trust will arrange ‘open days' and other events, which celebrate the distinguished composer's legacy to New Zealand 's cultural life.

“It is clear that Douglas Lilburn's music and personal generosity affected many people, and they are now keen to repay some of this through ensuring that his house becomes a living legacy to his life and work.” concluded Professor Holborow.
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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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