Our December Scholar of the Month
11 year old Toki from Merton is one of our new Scholars, having started his journey with LMF in September. He was nominated for a Scholarship by Merton Music Foundation earlier this year after showing real talent and a love for music in guitar lessons and class music lessons at school, and in Guitar Ensemble and Choir at MMF’s Music Centre.
In his nomination form, Toki’s primary school music co-ordinator wrote: “Toki is a highly engaged and talented young musician who has demonstrated incredible potential in his choir and guitar ensembles with MMF as well as his 1-1 guitar lessons. He regularly contributes to school music making and is a joy to teach.”
His LMF Scholarship enables Toki to have weekly 1-1 Guitar lessons and membership to MMF’s ensembles and classes, and covers the cost of instrument hire, sheet music and exam fees. Toki also has a Scholarship Mentor at MMF to support his ongoing musical and personal development, and will be invited to our Playing Days and Twilight Sessions throughout the course of his Scholarship. He is working at around Grade 2 level on the guitar, and also loves singing.
Toki attended our New Scholars’ Awards Day at the Merchant Taylors’ Hall in September. The Scholars took part in a creative music-making workshop led by fantastic tutors from ABRSM, devising a new piece and performing it for friends and family in our awards ceremony. Everyone had a brilliant time; it was a wonderful way to mark the beginning of their four-year journey as LMF Scholars.
Last week Toki sent us this amazing video performance of ‘Rockin’ Robin’ which made us feel extremely festive. We’re sure you will feel the same!
Our Q&A with Toki
Tell us a bit about the London Music Fund Awards Day back in September. What did you enjoy? What did you learn?
I enjoyed playing music in an orchestra in a historic venue. I learnt that music can inspire and unite people.
What do you like most about playing the guitar?
I like playing the guitar because it allows me to play many different genres and I can sing along.
How does it make you feel to be a musician?
I feel very proud to be a musician because not everyone can play an instrument. I also feel lucky that I can share my joy with others through music.
What are you looking forward to most about your LMF Scholarship?
I’m looking forward to meeting other musicians and developing my music skills.
What’s your musical goal for 2023?
I want to complete more grades on my guitar.