London Music Fund

Sarah rehearsing ‘Above Earth’ at a London Music Fund Playing Day with brass and woodwind Scholars in advance of the July Gala performance.

The London Music Fund (LMF) offers scholarships, high-quality instruments and performance opportunities to inspire the next generation of musicians, particularly those from underserved
communities.

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Grant type

Bursary/scholarship scheme

Grant date

2022

Grant size

£40,000

Duration

4 years

Location

Inner London-wide

In 2018 and 2022, we teamed up with the LMF to award scholarships to 10 budding musicians.

One such recipient is Sarah, an 11-year-old saxophonist from Wandsworth, who received her scholarship in 2018. Sarah’s love for music started earlywith a toy saxophone, but she has since progressed to studying for her Grade 3 exam. Her favourite performance piece is Rick Astley’s ‘Never Gonna Give You Up,’ and she
enjoys surprising people by playing it unexpectedly.

Sarah playing the saxophone

One highlight of Sarah's scholarship experience was performing at the LMF’s 2019 Gala at the Royal Academy of Music, where she participated in the world premiere
of Deborah Pritchard’s Above Earth. Alongside lessons, Sarah participates in various musical groups, including jazz and pop bands, where she particularly enjoys improvising. Sarah credits the scholarship with boosting her confidence and improving her school performance.

Her Mum noticed that it gave Sarah a fresh start and renewed enthusiasm for learning. Sarah hopes to continue her musical journey, aiming to complete all her
grades, form a band, go on a world tour, and perhaps teach music.

You can read more about Sarah's story here.