On the passing of Sir Ian Stoutzker, 1929 – 2024
We are greatly saddened to hear about the passing of Sir Ian Stoutzker, aged 95.
Sir Ian was a noted banker, musician and philanthropist, and held a long association with Help Musicians, previously known as the Musicians Benevolent Fund. He was a charity Trustee for over 20 years and a member of the Finance Committee, Executive Committee, Advisory Council and Chair of the Royal Concert Committee.
Throughout his life, Sir Ian was a proud ambassador for the arts, having originally studied violin at Royal College of Music, before going on to the London School of Economics, which led to a career in merchant banking.
One of his greatest achievements was the founding of Live Music Now with his friend and violinist Sir Yehudi Menuhin in 1977. The charity’s aim is to reach out to those less fortunate in society to enjoy the benefits of live music, whilst also helping young musicians at the start of their career. For over forty-five years, Live Music Now has collaborated with people in care homes, schools, hospitals, hospices and community settings across the UK to provide engaging concerts and residencies in a range of genres.
In addition to his pioneering work with Live Music Now, Sir Ian helmed the Philharmonia Orchestra as Chairman from 1973 to 1976 and President from 1976 to 1979. In 2019, he was awarded a knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for lifelong commitment to the arts and music.
Sir Ian’s presence will be greatly missed by not only our charity but so many other organisations he inspired throughout his life. Our thoughts are with his wife, family and friends at this time.