Million-pound legacy for Scotland’s national Music School

St Mary’s Music School, Scotland’s national music school, is celebrating the most significant legacy to be received in its 50-year-long history, thanks to the generosity of School supporter and music enthusiast, the late David Hutcheson.

A great music lover, David was a major supporter of the Edinburgh School in his later years and a regular attender at its concerts and performances. He believed passionately in supporting young people and music.

His legacy to the School, which will total more than one million pounds, comes at an exciting time in the history of St Mary’s Music School, as it looks to develop and modernise its facilities and provide the best possible experience for generations of talented young musicians to come.

St Mary’s Music School Headteacher, Dr Kenneth Taylor, remembers David fondly: “David was a great music aficionado and a generous supporter of the School. His support of our young musicians during his lifetime was wonderful but his legacy is nothing short of remarkable.

” We are deeply grateful to David for supporting the School with such a significant gift. His generosity will live on with the School and help our aspiring young musicians to go on to careers as professional instrumentalists, composers, singers, conductors and music teachers around the world.”

A music aficionado

Born in the Borders and raised in a musical family, it was David’s mother – an excellent violinist – who inspired in him a lifelong love of music and encouraged him to become an accomplished pianist himself.

A keen collector throughout his life, David amassed a significant collection of antique furniture, British & European paintings and silver. 

Highlights of his collection will be auctioned by Lyon & Turnbull in their forthcoming Five Centuries sale on 4 – 5 September and across a range of specialist auctions this autumn.

All will benefit St Mary’s Music School, as was his wish.