One Manxman is returning home to lead a workshop for a local orchestra after working a respected career in military music-making.
Major Richard Watterson, director of music of the Band of The Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment, will take the baton for the Isle of Man Wind Orchestra annual wind weekend from October 22 to 24.
The workshop will take place at Sulby Methodist Church across three days, beginning with an evening session from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursday, October 22.
A second evening session will be held at the same time on Friday, October 23, followed by a full day of music-making from 10am on Saturday, October 24.
The weekend will conclude with a concert for relatives, friends and members of the public at 4pm on Saturday. Guest musicians of all ages, from Grade 3 standard upwards, are invited to take part in the weekend.
Participation is free, thanks to sponsorship from the Isle of Man Arts Council and the Elizabeth Clucas Charitable Trust.
Major Watterson said: ‘It means a great deal to me to come back to the island where my musical journey began. To work with IoMWO will be a huge honour and privilege. I am excited to reconnect with the island and share my experience, enthusiasm and love of wind music with local musicians.’
He first began playing cornet with Rushen Silver Band and the Manx Youth Orchestra, which led to him unlocking a lifelong passion for music.
He enlisted in the British Army in 1988 and has had a 38-year career playing in and leading its prestigious bands and performing and directing at countless military, ceremonial events and concerts in the UK and overseas.
In 2016 he ended his regular Army career as Director of Music of the Band and Bugles of The Rifles, but returned to the Army Reserves three years later, commanding the Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers before moving to his current position.
In Major Watterson’s spare time he enjoys golf and alpine skiing - as well as trying his hand at all things DIY.
John Kinley, musical director of IoMWO, said: ‘Our workshop weekend gives our regular members, plus guests who join us, the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new and varied programme of music under the tutelage of a highly experienced conductor.
‘It is both challenging and enjoyable. We are thrilled to have someone of the calibre of Major Watterson come home to lead the workshop this year.’
The Isle of Man Wind Orchestra meets on term-time Thursday evenings at Marown School. It plays half a dozen concerts a year, ranging from Tynwald Day to the Cathedral concert series.
For more information about taking part in the weekend, or joining the orchestra, contact Bev Quine via [email protected] or via the orchestra’s Facebook page.