A Manxman with a distinguished career in military music-making is returning home next month to lead a workshop for a local orchestra.
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.
Major Watterson started playing cornet with Rushen Silver Band and the Manx Youth Orchestra and this unlocked 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.
He ended his regular Army career as Director of Music of the Band and Bugles of The Rifles in 2016 but returned to the Army Reserves three years later, commanding the Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers before moving to his current position.
He said: “It means a great deal to me to come back to the Island where my musical journey began.
“To work with Isle of Man Wind Orchestra 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.”
The workshop will be held at Sulby Methodist Church and takes place on October 22, 7.30pm-9.30pm, October 23, from 7.30pm-9.30pm and all day October 24, from 10.
A concert will be a held for relatives, friends and the public at 4pm that day (October 24).
Guest musicians of all ages (grade 3 and above) are invited to join the weekend and will receive a warm welcome. Taking part is free for all participants, thanks to sponsorship from the Isle of Man Arts Council and the Elizabeth Clucas Charitable Trust.
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.”
IOMWO 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 concertmanager@iomwo.com or via the orchestra’s facebook page.
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