Supporting Young Women in Four-Part Harmony
The Prue Blythe Memorial Trust (PBMT) was established to honour the legacy of Prue Blythe, an inspiring leader in New Zealand’s barbershop community. The trust provides financial support to young women, 25 years and under, who sing in four-part harmony, helping them participate in competitions, form quartets or choruses, and attend Sweet Adelines Aotearoa New Zealand (SANZ) education events.
About Prue Blythe
Prue Blythe was a passionate and dedicated advocate for women’s barbershop singing in New Zealand. She first joined the Sweet Adelines community in 1988, quickly rising through the ranks to become the director of Faultline Chorus in Wellington. Under her leadership, the chorus achieved numerous national awards, growing into a well-respected and talented ensemble.
Beyond her achievements with Faultline, Prue dedicated herself to mentoring and coaching quartets and choruses across the country. She played a pivotal role in bringing the Young Women in Harmony program to New Zealand, inspiring and supporting the next generation of female barbershop singers. Her contributions extended to international coaching, where she was recognised for her expertise and invited to join the prestigious Sweet Adelines International Faculty.
Prue’s impact on the barbershop community was immense, and her legacy continues through this trust, ensuring that young women have access to the same opportunities she worked tirelessly to create.
How we can help
The Prue Blythe Memorial Trust offers funding to support young women in barbershop singing. Grants can be used for:
- Travel and accommodation costs to attend national and international four-part harmony competitions.
- Formation of high school quartets or choruses.
- Participation in SANZ education events to develop vocal and performance skills.
- Any other initiatives that support young women to engage with barbershop singing.
Apply for Funding
If you're a young woman passionate about barbershop singing and need financial assistance to attend a competition or educational event, we encourage you to apply!
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be secondary school students, or members of a SANZ chorus in Aotearoa New Zealand.
- Funding is available for individuals, quartets, or choruses singing four-part harmony.
- Applications must outline how the funding will support their musical development.
How to Apply:
- Download and complete the PBMT Funding Application Form and email it to PBMT Chair Shelley Bascand
- Application form PDF Application form Word
Prue’s Legacy Lives On
Prue’s passion, determination, and love for barbershop touched so many lives. The Prue Blythe Memorial Trust is dedicated to continuing her work, giving young women the chance to grow, learn, and share the joy of barbershop singing.
Apply today and be part of a harmony that lasts a lifetime!
