Established in 1995, the Mehli Mehta Music Foundation (MMMF) carries forward the vision of Mehli Mehta, to create in Mumbai a vibrant space where Western classical music can be learned, performed, and deeply experienced. At its heart lies a belief in the transformative power of music to shape confidence, discipline, creativity, and connection.
Music education forms the cornerstone of the Foundation’s work. Beginning as early as eight months through the Discover Music Programme, children are introduced to rhythm, listening, and expression at a formative stage. This journey continues through The Singing Tree, a dynamic choral programme that nurtures the voice as the first instrument, and into structured instrumental training supported by theory and ensemble learning.
Today, the MMMF engages over 1,200 students, including more than 900 children from under-resourced communities through sustained outreach partnerships with organisations such as the Aseema Charitable Trust, Seva Sadan Society, and St. Stephen’s School. The Foundation also provides music therapy for children and adults with special needs, enabling communication, confidence & emotional growth through music. Beyond education, the MMMF plays a vital role in enriching Mumbai’s cultural life.
It presents masterclasses and workshops led by distinguished international musicians, and has brought some of the world’s finest orchestras, chamber music ensembles and soloists, including the Munich Philharmonic, Maggio Musicale, Vienna Philharmonic, Mstislav Rostropovich, Daniel Barenboim, Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman, Lang Lang, Plácido Domingo, and Midori, apart from several visits of Zubin Mehta Its chamber music festival, Sangat, remains a signicant milestone in Mumbai’s cultural history, while the Listeners’ Club continues to cultivate informed and engaged audiences.
As its community grows, the MMMF is not only training young musicians but nurturing a future generation of listeners, ensuring that Western classical music continues to thrive in India. For more information, visit mmmfindia.org
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