Paul McCartney's guitar auction

Sep 21, 2007, 11:06 GMT

British singer Paul McCartney poses for the media at his daughter Stella McCartney\'s new show at the London Fashion Week Spring /Summer 2008 in London, Britain on 20 September 2007. EPA/HUGO PHILPOTT

Sir Paul McCartney auctioned one of his guitars to raise money to fund music grants for underprivileged US schools.

The former Beatle donated a stage-played, autographed instrument to be sold at the VH1 Save the Music Foundation 10th Anniversary Gala held at New York's Lincoln Centre last night (20.09.07).

Bidding started at $30,000 and proceeds will be used to buy instruments and musical equipment for underprivileged schools throughout the US.

A host of stars were present at the sold-out charity event including Bill Clinton, Mariah Carey, Quincy Jones, James Blunt, John Mayer, Jon Bon Jovi and Mya.

Before the auction guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and live entertainment, which included comedian Conan O'Brien mocking Britney Spears saying: "If any of you watched the MTV Video Music Awards, you saw that more than ever we need music education."

Many of the music stars attending the event fiercely believe children should be taught music in school.

Singer John Mayer said: "Public schools don't really appreciate the guitar. I don't know why they wouldn't put a turntable in a school, or an electric guitar and an amplifier. I had to go home and do all that stuff."

Mya added: "Music is a group effort and it felt really, really good connecting with the other kids. Music has been a playground for me."

(C) BANG Media International