How it all began

AYM began life as The Musicas Fund, which was established in 1998 from the sale proceeds of Robert Lewin’s collection of stringed instruments, bows and books. This extraordinary legacy ensures that young musicians with exceptional potential are given a chance to develop their talent.

Robert Lewin (1906 -1998)

Bob Lewin was born over a fish and chip shop in the East End of London. Having learnt violin and piano at an early age, he started his music career by accompanying silent movies in the cinemas, before joining the Auxiliary Fire Service during the Second World War.

Upon returning, he not only took up music professionally but started dealing in instruments and bows; earning a reputation as an honest and reliable authority, going on to write the market report for ‘The Strad’ magazine for over 50 years.