Chris Clementi

Chris Clementi supported many charities and good causes during his lifetime but the Finchcocks Charity was one that was always very dear and close to his heart. His support funded the Muzio Clementi Award to encourage the early careers of many musicians: both abroad and in the UK. A booklet was produced last year by the winners of this award who each spoke warmly of the impact the award had in their careers.

This was not the only way in which Chris supported music at the Finchcocks Charity. One year a competition was organised for young musicians and Chris kindly sponsored this with the aim of encouraging children to foster an interest in early keyboard instruments.

The Finchcocks Charity is based in Kent. Formerly in Goudhurst, the collection contained over 100 early keyboard instruments: spinets, harpsichords, fortepianos, clavichords and even organs!

The smaller collection is now housed at a private residence in Tunbridge Wells and welcomes visits from schools, PhD students and keyboard enthusiasts.

We know this was a charity which meant so much to Chris and would like you to share with us in keeping his memory alive through music