The University of Salford will celebrate the retirement of Professor Peter Graham after 22 years of outstanding academic work, as well as the welcome return to work of Dr Howard Evans, in a special concert at Peel Hall in May.

Full health

Howard returns after more than twelve months of intensive ongoing treatment for the cancer, and told 4BR:

"It’s been a very long haul these last months, but the treatment has been successful and I'm fighting to return to full health and strength.

It’s been really good to get re-acquainted with the University Band again in rehearsals and I'm looking forward to the final concerts for the academic year, as well as the plans that are already in place for next year."

Looking forward

Peter Graham added: "I'm also looking forward to the Celebration Concert which is always a highlight of year.

It will be great meeting with former colleagues and students and a particular delight to see Howard return after his recent health issues."

It’s been a very long haul these last months, but the treatment has been successful and I'm fighting to return to full health and strengthHoward Evans

Awards

This event provides one of the high points at the end of the academic year for students, and the programme will include the announcement and presentation of the Geneva Instrument Ensemble Prize, which will be given by Tim Oldroyd, to the winning student ensemble.

In addition there will also be the presentation of the long established Kirklees Composition Competition Award by joint Managing Directors David and Graham Horsfield.

Winners from previous competitions will also feature, including a performance of the ‘Finale’ from Rachmaninov’s ‘Second Piano Concerto’ with special guest soloist, Lauryna Sablevicute.