A Lasting Gift to London’s Young Pianists

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new Piano Scholarship programme, made possible by the generous legacy of the late Michael Heaton.

The programme will support talented young pianists facing barriers to progression, helping to remove financial obstacles that can prevent them from continuing high-quality musical training at a crucial stage in their development. Sitting alongside LMF's existing Junior, Intermediate and Senior Scholarships, it forms a dedicated pathway for advanced pianists across London.

The programme will welcome its first Piano Scholars in January 2027 and, thereafter, support up to 20 young musicians each year through its Intermediate and Senior Piano Scholarships.

Scholars will receive funding towards piano tuition and wider musical costs, helping them access the opportunities and support needed to continue their musical progression. Alongside financial assistance, Scholars will benefit from regular mentoring, performance opportunities and access to a community of fellow young musicians. As piano study can often be a more individual pursuit, the programme has been designed to create opportunities for connection, collaboration and shared musical experiences.

Through piano masterclasses, Playing Days, special projects, concert visits and performances, Scholars will have opportunities to broaden their musical horizons, build confidence and connect with like-minded peers from across London.

Senior Piano Scholars will also be supported as they consider their next steps, with opportunities to visit conservatoires and orchestras and gain insight from professional musicians.

By investing in advanced young pianists, the programme aims to ensure that financial circumstances do not stand in the way of musical ambition, potential and progression.

"We are so pleased to launch the Piano Scholarship programme, and we are enormously grateful to the late Michael Heaton, whose generous legacy has made this possible. Piano study can often be a solitary experience, and there are fewer structured progression opportunities available for young pianists than for many other instrumentalists. Through our Piano Scholarships, we want to connect advanced young pianists with a wider community of musicians, mentors and experiences. We cannot wait to welcome our first Piano Scholars in January 2027 and look forward to supporting them as they develop as musicians and young people."

Chris Stones, Chief Executive

If you would like to find out more about our Piano Scholarships, please email Kate@londonmusicfund.org.