Boris Johnson’s musical instrument amnesty reaches a major milestone today with a music education summit at City Hall. The summit, due to be attended by musicians and representatives of venues, colleges and local councils, will be followed by the presentation of instruments and a live music event in the evening.
Following his election last May the Mayor, in conjunction with Time Out and London Councils, launched the ‘No Strings Attached’ amnesty to collect unused or unneeded musical instrument so they could be given to children who might otherwise be denied the opportunity to learn to play.
The instruments will go to schools and young people in Lambeth through the ‘In Harmony’ music education scheme chaired by Julian Lloyd Webber, who has also donated a cello.
The initiative has attracted the support of legendary musician Sting who will donate his bass guitar. Sting said the amnesty “is a really important initiative and I’m delighted to support it.”
Other famous supporters from the world of music include renowned conductor Sir Simon Rattle and Madness singer Graham ‘Suggs’ McPherson.
Mayor Johnson commented: “I’d like every kid in the capital to play an instrument and the prospect of learning on one owned by a superstar like Sting must be absolutely thrilling.”
Chairman of London Councils, Councillor Merrick Cockell said his organisation was “keen to work with the Mayor, boroughs and others to encourage more young people to learn to play music, a skill they can use and enjoy throughout their lives.”
