Boris Johnson and children at the launch. Image: MFYM

Boris Johnson has launched the Mayor of London’s Fund for Young Musicians. Talented young musicians will benefit from a £2 million fund for music education.

The fund (MFYM) will give four year scholarships to 400 children aged 7 to 11.

MFYM, a registered charity recognised for supporting and benefiting young musicians, aims the scholarship at those who have illustrated commitment and musical potential but are financially disadvantaged.

Mr Johnson, MFYM’s founder patron, said:

If a young Londoner has a talent for music and the commitment to progress, I want them to be able to do so regardless of their starting point.

Serena Andrews, a student from Prendergast school in Lewisham said:

I will be happy to finally have a chance to play instruments on a regular basis. It will help my mum out a lot in terms of finance.

The mayor with MFYM CEO Ginny Greenwood and Patron Chi-chi Nwanoku

The scholarships will include instrumental tuition, saturday music school, access to instruments, individual mentoring and regular performances.

The scheme will begin in the 2011/12 academic year. Partnerships will start no later than September 2012.