A word from our new Chair, Stuart Mason
Music is really important in children’s lives and should be a part of every child’s life – not the preserve of a few. Every child is creative. Every child needs the chance to find and fulfil their creative ambition, that’s why I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Chair at Music Masters, an organisation that is close to the heart of the Kanneh- Mason family. As parents, we [Kadiatu and I] knew we wanted music to be part of our children’s lives. We’ve seen with our own children the power of playing together – composing, creating, just playing around. I want other children to feel that love of music. But what children also need from music teachers is technique and rigour, and what those teachers need is support to do their best work. I see all of these things – passion, discipline and community – at the heart of Music Masters.
My parents absolutely loved classical music. But they couldn’t afford a piano until I was six and my sister was ten. Then, when I was twelve, I saw Daniel Barenboim playing Chopin at the Royal Festival Hall and you couldn’t get me off that piano; whether we’re talking about exposure to an inspiring teacher, or an artist playing live, children need those moments.
Music Masters has a great story to tell – not just about the fabulous students and teachers in our Flagship Schools, which are extraordinary – we’re also five years into offering our post-graduate training course, Musicians of Change (PGCEI). Teaching the teachers too! And this will be the key to growing our impact. We want to help children in their hundreds and thousands to fulfil their creative potential. And of course, to bring as many new supporters as we can along on the journey with us!
In my family, we know what it means to have help along the way but we also understand how challenging it can be to support children through their music education and into their careers. We couldn’t always afford lessons or instruments, but we also experienced some extraordinary acts of generosity. As Chair of Music Masters, I want to lend my voice to a wonderful ambition, to ensure that every child gets that help along the way.
Stuart Mason, Chair of Music Masters