In just a few weeks it’s going to be exactly 20 years since a letter from the Companies House arrived at my first post-student address, a small flat in London, notifying me that Music of Life Foundation was born. The letter from the Charity Commissions followed shortly after, granting the newly born organisation the status of the registered charity. We launched it with a delightful concert featuring performances of some amazing young musicians with disabilities I was lucky enough to meet in my very first months of work, and the story of Music of Life began!

It’s been an absolute privilege to work as the charity’s CEO for almost half of my life, and I am delighted to see it grow and fulfil its promise of long-term bespoke support through musical activities to thousands of children and young people with physical, learning and emotional needs, their school communities and their families. Music of Life works with some of the most disadvantaged children in the UK, providing transformational musical experiences that support vital learning and social skills as well as personal development.

As a charity, we participated in the Royal Parks Half Marathon on many occasions, but it is the first time I run for it myself and I would like to invite you to sponsor me as a birthday gift to the charity! Unrestricted funds we raise through individual giving go towards projects that may otherwise not be happening, for example individual lessons where no dedicated grants were awarded or additional rehearsals and access costs prior to the concerts or performances, or an instrument or equipment cost to support individual child’s needs. Any donation you make will contribute towards a much-needed musical experience. Thank you!

musicoflife.org.uk