Ross appealing for help to take next step towards dream

Ross Hume began playing the violin at the age of nine and it has been his ambition to play as part of a professional orchestra for many years.

He has developed his skills since then, including at the Tweed Music Centre in The Maltings, and he was part of the Young Musicians Programme at Sage Gateshead.

The 22-year-old has applied to national funders and grant makers with no success. However, the Edrom Casals Centre in the Scottish Borders awarded Ross a grant and supported him with his fund-raising concert on June 14, which raised more than £1,000.

Ross said: “I’m delighted that I have gained a place at RNCM to study for a two-year Masters in violin performance as it provides a friendly environment, there will be plenty of opportunities for me to perform and this degree will bring me a step closer to achieving my dream.

“There is only one thing standing in the way now – the cost.

“It’s just over £20,000 for the tuition fees alone, and this does not include the cost of living, and the student finance available for a masters degree is limited.

“I’m grateful to all those who have supported me so far. This also includes the Spittal Improvement Trust for putting my appeal in its newsletter and the people who attended my fund-raising concert – some of whom I didn’t know.

“I do work at the Berwick McDonald’s as well, but given the significant fees, I’m appealing to people and businesses across the Berwick area to please go to my online page and make a donation towards my costs.”

The former Spittal First School, Tweedmouth Middle School and Berwick Academy student completed a music degree at York University and graduated in July 2018.

He tried to get a place at a couple of music schools in London before his successful audition for RNCM in February.

To make a donation, go to www.gf.me/u/trt2yf