Musicians Run to the Beat in aid of the Fund

With 90 events taking place this year in celebration of the Fund's 90th birthday, a highlight is set to be the Run to the Beat half marathon in September. Supporters, staff and musicians are busy training and fundraising to get in shape and raise as much money as they can.

Run to the Beat is London's music-themed half marathon, starting and finishing at the O2 and taking in 16 live music stages around the 13.1 mile course. Leading the Musicians Benevolent Fund's team this year is ENO tuba player Nick Hitchens. Nick ran last year's London Marathon in aid of the Fund, and has shared his expertise in the form of Nick's Ten Top Running Tips. Download the PDF to get some handy hints on training and preparation.

Also running for the Fund will be Tim Ower, Dave Morecroft and Raphael Clarkson from the jazz band World Service Project. Having formed in 2009, the group won the 2010 Peter Whittingham Jazz Award and they have been receiving great reviews for their live performances and blend of jazz, funk, free-improvisation, punk and contemporary classical music.Take a look at their official website to find out about their award and the exciting plans they have in store for the rest of the year.

Other runners who have pledged their support include Student Health Scheme recipient and horn player Andrew Turner, and the Fund's own Media and Communications officer Christine Brown.

All places for Run to the Beat are now taken but please come down on the day to show your support.

Run to the Beat is just one of 90 events planned to celebrate our anniversary year. Musicians and music lovers have been pledging their support all year so that we are nearing our target, but we still need your help to get there. Find out who has contributed an event on the 90 years: 90 big ideas page, where you can also explore the ways you can get involved.