The Mozart Fellowship was established in 1969 to aid and encourage composers of music in the practice and advancement of their art, to associate them with the life of the University and to foster an interest in contemporary music within the University and in the community. The work of the Mozart Fellow may be performed in concert during their Fellowship year.
The annual, 12-month Fellowship provides a studio/office space and not less than the minimum salary of a fulltime university lecturer. It is open to composers who are normally resident in New Zealand who, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, have demonstrated their ability and talent, and the intention of pursuing a career in music, and would benefit from holding the Fellowship.
See the list of all previous Mozart Fellowship recipients
Applications for 2027 Otago Arts Fellowships are now open until Monday, 15 June 2026.
Apply for the Mozart Fellowship
See all Otago Arts Fellowships open for applications
Mozart Fellowship 2026
The Mozart Fellowship has not been awarded in 2026. The University had to temporarily pause awarding this Fellowship due to financial pressure.
We were delighted to announce on 19 March that we are able award this fellowship in 2027. Applications are open from 1 April to 15 June 2026.
Read the announcement in 'Funding success sees return of arts fellowships'
The Mozart Fellowship in 2027 is being supported by individual donations, alongside the Mozart Fellowship Trust Fund distribution. To continue to offer this Fellowship annually, we require further philanthropic support. Please donate to support New Zealand’s composers:
Make a donation to the Mozart Fellowship Trust
For more information, contact:
Email arts.fellows@otago.ac.nz