Living costs for my violin studies in London, UK

Sara Matovic is organizing this fundraiser.

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IMPORTANT UPDATE - I am almost reaching my goal. As of the 13th of June, 95% has been raised!

Hello everybody! My name is Sara Matović, and I am a 25-year-old violinist from Serbia. I am fundraising for the living expenses while undertaking the postgraduate (Master of Performace) studies in Baroque Violin at the Royal College of Music in London! I am reaching out to you in the hope that all of you people of good will help me raise money for my living expenses.

I come from a modest family in Southern Serbia. I began playing when I was just 8 years old, and I completed my elementary and secondary music education in my hometown of Užice, before pursuing my undergraduate studies at the Academy of Arts in Novi Sad (in the northern part of the country). And two years ago, I had a life-changing experience - I encountered a baroque violin, and I was absolutely captivated!

As this experience ignited a passion and enthusiasm for early music within me and led me to realise that this was the path I was destined to follow, I have since then attended many masterclasses and finally applied to the Royal College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music's auditions, which happened this last December. Even though I didn't get the visa in time to go to London, I auditioned online, and to my delight, I was accepted into both institutions. I opted to go to the ROYAL COLLEGE OF MUSIC as they generously granted me a full scholarship, which covers the tuition for two years of my studies in the Master of Performance programme.

(from the recent concert when I played baroque violin)

I am immensely grateful for the full scholarship! But my family, regrettably, cannot support me with the living expenses. You see, the economic situation in Serbia makes it difficult for them to help, so I have taken it upon myself to approach potential donors (such as local shops, companies, friends, and colleagues) in the hope of raising the required amount by May 31st. This deadline will enable me to apply for my student visa on June 1st or shortly thereafter.

I humbly ask for your kindness and generosity in helping me achieve my dream of studying in London. No contribution is too small, and every bit of support will bring me one step closer to realising my aspirations!

Thank you in advance for your support and generosity.

Below is the video from my online audition (Cordier's "La Boccanne Primitive"):

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who can contribute any amount towards my journey!

To give you a glimpse into my musical world, I invite you to watch this video from the final concert of the 20th Belgrade Baroque Academy, held in January this year. It was during this event that I had the incredible opportunity to work with my future mentor, the esteemed Prof. Adrian Butterfield:

Once again, thank you for your support and generosity. Together, we can transform dreams into reality!

Below are several videos showing my activities in this fundraising process... I was on TV, interviewed on the radio and elsewhere... all so that I can find ways to support myself!