Jan Grant: A Legacy of Philanthropy and Connection
Jan Grant's life was defined by philanthropy—driven by compassion, connection, and a deep commitment to fostering community engagement.
As the longtime owner of the famed Malmsbury Bakery, she was a vocal advocate for local issues, often sparking meaningful debate within the township.
Cygnet, Jan's residence in Lauriston, rural Victoria.
A passionate music lover and dedicated supporter of young talent, Jan made a lasting impact on the world of music through her involvement with the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM). In 2011, she approached ANAM with the idea of building a network of donors to contribute to the living allowances that support musicians. The concept was inspired by a childhood memory of her father’s syndicate-funded thoroughbred horses—where collective contributions made great achievements possible. The long-term success of the syndicate program enriched both musicians and patrons, creating a deep sense of shared purpose.
The recital space decorated with pieces from Jan's collection.
An essential part of Jan's contribution was hosting recitals at Cygnet, her neoclassical residence in Lauriston, rural Victoria. Inspired by the grandeur of English stately homes, Cygnet housed dedicated recital rooms of perfect proportion. Intimacy was central to Jan’s vision—she carefully curated paintings and furniture to create a space that celebrated both beauty and comfort. Many of the young musicians who performed in Cygnet’s grand reception rooms came from diverse backgrounds. It was important to Jan that they felt not only welcomed but uplifted in her sanctuary devoted to musical excellence.
What began as a financial assistance program soon evolved into a genuine community, fostering deep connections between musicians and benefactors. Known for her mischievous spirit and straight-talking nature, Jan had an innate ability to bring people together, breaking down social barriers and forging lasting friendships beyond the ANAM program. She once reflected:
WILLIAM (BILL) DELECCA (BORN 1929), The Meandering River 1996
“We formed friendships with musicians and other donors, which have added so much to all our lives. I am a very proud donor to this program. As a senior person, I realise the value of these young people who are dedicated to creating something beautiful and to being as excellent as they can. Watching musicians grow personally and professionally at ANAM is joyous. I follow their careers with pride. They will always have a place at my table.”
Jan’s reverence for music and beauty lives on—not only in the objects she collected but, more importantly, in the enduring connections she fostered. In recognition of her extraordinary generosity, the Board of ANAM has named the new musicians’ lounge in the renovated South Melbourne Town Hall the Jan Grant Musicians’ Lounge—a space that will continue to support and inspire generations of musicians to come.