My name is Kevin Saw, and I am honored to have been accepted into the Artist Diploma course at the Royal College of Music for the 2024-25 academic year. I am writing to humbly request your support in helping me continue my journey as a musician. The current political and economic climates have made it exceedingly difficult to secure adequate funding through traditional channels, and your assistance could be the pivotal support that allows me to realize my dreams.
Currently, I am studying under Martin Outram at the Royal Academy of Music, where I am privileged to be a Leverhulme Arts Scholar on the Professional Diploma course. As a violist, I have had the incredible opportunity to perform with esteemed orchestras such as the BBC Philharmonic—highlighted by a performance at the 2023 BBC Proms—along with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, CBSO, RLPO, Royal Northern Sinfonia, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, and Opera North.
My musical journey began at the age of 14, an age considered late to start for many musicians. Despite this, my passion and determination have driven me to pursue music professionally, even against my parents' wishes. Financing my education independently has been a formidable challenge. Coming from Malaysia, I face significant financial barriers, as I am ineligible for student loans and must bear the high costs of international tuition and visa applications. I am profoundly grateful for the support from the Allan & Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust, Ann Gerrard Award, Donny Knowles Scholarship, Thomas Jellis Bequest Fund, Emmanuel Bursary, and the HELP Musicians Postgraduate Award. Their generosity has been a lifeline, allowing me to reach this pivotal point in my career.
Below, I have inserted a table of my budget breakdown that will help make this degree financially viable:
I am acutely aware of the sacrifices and financial struggles that accompany the pursuit of a musical education. The support you may offer would not only make my studies at the Royal College of Music possible but also serve as a catalyst for my growth as a musician. Your generosity would be a profound gift, allowing me to focus on my music and pursue excellence.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for considering my request. I would be deeply grateful for the opportunity to discuss this further and explore how your support can make a lasting impact on my future.
With sincere gratitude,
Kevin Saw