NZ On Air is making changes to its music funding scheme in a bid to keep up with audience behaviour and to better connect people with local artists.

Since 2011 the independent government funding agency has run its ‘Making Tracks' funding scheme which allowed artists to apply for funding for recording singles and music videos.

Mount Manganui band New Reptiles was one of 23 artists who received funding under the previous NZ On Air's ‘Making Tracks' funding scheme in May this year. Photo: New Reptiles/Bandcamp

But from July 1 the ‘New Music' schemes will create two different paths to funding and allow more flexibility.

The New Music [Project] funding scheme will support artists with the backing of a professional music company that can co-invest at least 40 per cent of the costs, giving artists access to between $7500 and $30,000 for a music project consisting of at least two consecutive single releases.

While the New Music [Single] funding scheme will support both signed and unsigned artists to record a single and video. Up to $8000 will be available per song, with the artist co-investing $2000.

Music and Radio head David Ridler says the new funding scheme is part of a wide-ranging review of NZ On Air's funding strategy which will be revealed shortly.

'With the new project-based funding we will partner in multi-single projects with professional NZ music companies who can provide the expertise, planning and support to ensure the best possible airplay and online outcomes for artists,” he explains.

'At the same time we are keeping a single-based funding scheme so any artist who has a great song and has started to generate an audience can still apply for funding.”

David says with a multitude of platforms for music today, getting noticed can be challenging for artists.

'Ultimately we are aiming for more people discovering and enjoying more NZ music on radio and online.”

A key change in the new funding schemes allows support for promotion of songs, which David adds is 'crucial in helping artists find their audience”.

During the 2016/17 year $2 million dollars will be available for new music support.

NZ On Air will also continue its 60/40 ratio target for mainstream and alternative music funding.

For more information on the New Music funding scheme visit NZ On Air's website at: www.nzonair.govt.nz/music