August Scholar of the Month

Mohammed from Newham is one of our 2021-25 Scholars, and an extremely talented pianist. He has a natural flare for the instrument and is a very hardworking musician. Mohammed had achieved a distinction for Grade 7 piano last summer, so began his Scholarship at a very advanced level. He has continued to make amazing progress and is preparing to take his Grade 8 in the autumn this year – a remarkable standard to have reached at the age of 12.

Mohammed has been consolidating his technique by working on a number of musically complex pieces. His stamina has developed by gradually playing pieces of greater length. His Baroque contrapuntal playing is excellent and he performed the Gigue from Bach’s G major suite for keyboard at Newham Academy. He has also been playing technically demanding pieces by Brahms and other Romantic composers.

Mohammed at the Barbican recently, making the most of our Scholar free ticket offers!

Mohammed is always punctual and serious-minded about his studies. His general musicianship, sight-reading and theory skills are of a high standard. In addition to piano lessons he attends the Training Orchestra at Newham Music’s Saturday School. His teacher told us: “Mohammed is a credit to Newham Music Academy and has benefitted enormously from the support received from the London Music Fund so far.”

We were delighted to learn that Mohammed received a Jack Petchey Achievement Award this year, having been nominated by his peers in recognition of the impact he has made at Newham Music Academy.

Our Q&A with Mohammed

What has been the highlight of the first year of your LMF Scholarship?

Meeting new people and talented musicians.

What is your favourite thing about playing the piano?

Feeling close to music & being able to be part of it.

How are you feeling about preparing for your Grade 8 exam and what are you working hardest on at the moment?

Overwhelmed & proud of being able to have gone that far. I work hard towards my technical abilities.

Is there anything specific you’re looking forward to about the next year of your musical journey?

To do as many performances as possible. I like to share my passion. I would like to try and learn new instrument (violin) if possible.

Do you have any advice for new Scholars who are beginning their awards in September?

Be responsible for your talent and practice regularly.