ABOUT THE AWARD
JRMA is playing an important role in redressing the gender imbalance in the field of jazz performance and giving important assistance to young female and gender diverse musicians at the beginning of their careers. There has been a marked increase in the number and overall quality of female and gender diverse jazz musicians in Sydney since JRMA began and we are proud to contribute to this important change. Founded in 2005, JRMA provides a professional development opportunity for an outstanding young female or gender diverse jazz musician.
The 2025 winner is Lauren Tsamouras
Read more about our previous winners.
The award nominees are selected from recommendations made by music educators, performers and previous JRMA winners. An expert panel selects the winner from a shortlist of nominees. (Please note, musicians cannot apply for the Award themselves.)
The winner receives:
Financial and in-kind assistance to develop and present their proposed project.
Assistance with developing a professional PR kit.
Performances at jazz venues and/or festivals. This is usually at the Sydney International Women’s Festival and the Melbourne Women’s International Jazz Festival.
A significant aspect of the Award is assistance with developing a media package including a professional photo shot. The photographers have included the brilliant Karen Steains, Camille Walsh and Anne Peeters.
JRMA is funded by private donations and support from the Mietta Foundation with assistance from Melbourne International Women's Jazz Festival (MIWJF), Sydney Improvised Music Association (SIMA) and ABC Jazz.