The Beethoven Fund
for Deaf Children
Since 2003, The Elizabeth Foundation has incorporated
the work of The Beethoven Fund for Deaf Children,
founded by renowned musical educator Ann Rachlin, MBE.
About The Beethoven Fund for Deaf Children
The Beethoven Fund for Deaf Children was set up in 1976 by renowned music educators, the late Ann and Ezra Rachlin.
They founded the organisation to help deaf children all over the UK to access music. The Beethoven Fund supported our work for many years by helping to fund instruments and our music studio.
In 2003, we were both privileged and delighted when Ann requested that we incorporate the name of her charity with The Elizabeth Foundation to continue her inspiring work.
Ann then served as our President, visiting on many occasions such as when she helped launch our Let’s Listen and Talk programme alongside Dame Evelyn Glennie in 2017 (see photo). Ann sadly passed in 2023.
About Ann Rachlin, MBE
In memoriam: 1933 – 2023
It is with deep sadness that in September 2023 we learned of the passing of our President, Ann Rachlin MBE. Throughout her remarkable life, Ann captivated both hearing and deaf children with her enchanting Fun with Music performances, weaving vibrant stories into melodies to captivate and delight young minds.
As our distinguished President, Ann devoted herself tirelessly to our mission to help deaf children learn to listen and talk. Having previously founded The Beethoven Fund for Deaf Children, Ann was delighted to incorporate the fund with The Elizabeth Foundation in 2003, continuing to share her expertise and passion.
Beyond her official role, Ann remained a constant and inspiring presence, offering her gentle wisdom and unwavering thoughtfulness. Her absence leaves a void that will be keenly felt, but her legacy will always be remembered.
To find out more about Ann’s life and work, visit her website.
Ann Rachlin MBE (filmed in 2017) explains why she is President of The Elizabeth Foundation
