A TYCOON whose early musical ambitions were thwarted has left a £2million legacy to the Royal Northern College of Music.

John Fewkes dreamed of playing an instrument but was discouraged by teachers.

He went on to make a fortune and eventually pursued his love for music - and now his gift will help train a new generation.

The money will fund scholarships for British-born wind, brass and percussion students at the Manchester college.

Mr Fewkes owned manufacturing firm John Scott-Nicholl which supplied socks to top schools around the country, with customers including the Royal Family.

After selling the business in 1990, he finally plucked up the courage to pick up an instrument and took piano and saxophone lessons, as well as teaching himself to read music.

His brother Roger, who co-owned the company, said the early discouragement had had a profound effect on his brother.

Choir

He said: "John had always had a keen interest in music but had never felt he was good enough to play. He was 13 when he asked a music teacher to teach him the piano but was told not to bother because he was not in the school choir.

"That destroyed him and although he maintained his love of music, his desire to play only came to the fore again when he retired. He didn't have a formal training in music but wanted to promote this type of education after his death."

Mr Fewkes, who never married and had no children, went on to run a dance band as a hobby. He died in April last year and also left a library of sheet music to the college.

He left a six-figure sum to his former school in Fleetwood, Lancashire, but the majority of his estate goes the RNCM, despite him having no connection with the college.

Principal Jonty Stockdale said he and staff were stunned.

He said: "It is a substantial boost for our School of Wind, Brass and Percussion.

"Students and their families already make substantial sacrifices to pursue training for a career in music, and these scholarships will provide much needed financial support."

Tweet