Steve Dillon (20 March 1953 - 1 April 2012) was a well-respected figure in the Australian and international music education communities, widely known for his enthusiastic approach to numerous projects around the globe, for his kindness, and his eternal optimism. A singer, songwriter, educator and humanitarian, Steve was particularly passionate about community music and the connections between music, wellbeing and social justice. His passion for music as a means of communicating between individuals and communities, and as a space and place for social change is evidenced in the many projects in which he was involved. The Steve Dillon award celebrates Steve's many interests and seeks to advance research and scholarship investigating the connections between music, wellbeing, and social justice.

Purpose

To honor the memory of Steve Dillon by supporting an early-career researcher to attend the ISME World Conference and present research for the first time.

Eligibility

• ISME members currently enrolled in a graduate research degree (Masters or Doctorate).
• Research paper accepted for presentation at the ISME World Conference.
• First-time presenters only.

Criteria

• Quality, originality, and significance of the research.
• Focus on music, wellbeing, social justice, or community music-making.
• Demonstrated financial need.

Award Value

Up to USD $1,500 for travel, accommodation, and sustenance.

General Guidelines for all World Conference Awards

• All awards are available to ISME members only.
• Award normally distributed post-conference attendance, unless otherwise approved by the ISME Finance Committee.
• Eligible costs: travel, accommodation, sustenance. Membership and registration are not covered by these awards.

Application Requirements

• 1 page CV
• Personal statement (300-400 words).
• Referee report (400 words).

Application Process

The online submission process for the 2026 ISME World Conference Travel Awards will open soon.

Past recipients of this award

Past recipients of this award are:

2024, Helsinki 

• Andre Lorenz Feria (Philippines)
• Asherine Joanne M. Roa (Philippines)
• Zhang Ru Yuan (China)

2018, Baku

• Joanne Gibson (UK)

2016, Glasgow

• Eva Wilde (UK)
• Jaclyn Paul (Canada)

The award was not made available in 2020 and 2022.