A crowdfunder has been launched to help support students whose music lessons were put to a halt due to the pandemic.

Merton Music Foundation has launched a fundraiser called, 'Don't Stop The Music', to support up to ten of Merton's young musicians facing emotional or financial difficulties due to Covid-19.

Before the pandemic, the foundation delivered around 1,500 music lessons, in addition to whole-class teaching to 2340 pupils and 25 band, ensemble and orchestra rehearsals.

Merton Music Foundation has since gone above and beyond to adapt to Covid-19 such as supporting students with online learning and video calls.

Your Local Guardian:

They would like to continue to do so and are looking to raise £3000 before July 20.

With £6,000, MMF would be able to offer children a minimum of 75% bursary for tuition as well as 100% bursary for Music Centre membership.

Merton Music Foundation, Chief Executive, Elisabeth Wigley, said: "We recognise that many of the families of Merton’s young music students are experiencing unprecedented hardship.

"We want to ensure that music can still be a part of their lives.

"The wellbeing and mental health benefits of music are well-documented.

"The continuity of being taught by a familiar and friendly face as well as learning, playing and being part of a wider community of musicians is a safe and creative space.

Your Local Guardian:

"Now, more than ever, children and young people need security and a little bit of ‘normal’ in a world we barely recognise.”

Each pound donated will be match-funded by the Greenwood Bursary Fund, in memory of former Director of Education for Merton, Ronald Greenwood.

To donate visit at, https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/dont-stop-the-music