After a shaky start learning the horn while at secondary school in Shropshire, with perseverance (and not to say bloody mindedness) Robin discovered the joys, and occasional tribulations, of ensemble playing in the Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Concert Band. During further education and career since then, Robin has always found a group to play in as an escape from the stresses of working life. Particular highlights included playing light opera with the Middlesex Hospital Medical School Orchestra and Mahler symphonies with the New Westminster Philharmonic Orchestra. Robin also enjoyed the more mainstream orchestral repertoire with the London Medical Orchestra and the Chichester Symphony Orchestra.
While working in the West Country Robin played for the Trowbridge Orchestra for a number of years. During that time he took the orchestra on tour to Trowbridge’s twin town, Leer in Ostfriesland, Germany, where they performed in the Kreismusikschule.
Robin joined the Harrow Symphony Orchestra in 1994 when his work brought him to Northwood, and he was elected Chairman several years ago.
Carole’s (his wife’s) perspective: “Robin was an enthusiastic horn player when we met in 1979. Believe me an orchestra rehearsal beats washing up! We’ve supported each other through the prevarications of keeping an amateur orchestra going. All one needs is a sense of humour!”
One aspect of Carole’s support is that she and a very long standing friend, Mary, often very kindly help the Orchestra by running the box office on the days of concerts.