Stewart Osgood's dedicated commitment to the Enderby Band organisation was recently celebrated with a special concert to mark his final appearance as Musical Director of its Concert Band.

Key figure

A key figure within the organisation for over 35 years, he first took on the role as Musical Director of Enderby Youth Band in the late 1980s, leading them to considerable success.

It subsequently led to the establishment of the non-contesting Enderby Concert Band which under his direction since 2008 has provided an invaluable and inclusive musical outlet.

Throughout this time Stewart also regularly played with the senior Enderby Band, as well as devoting countless hours to the organisation's administration and fund raising activities.

Not lost

Although he is taking a step away Stewart is not leaving the organisation completely and will continue to support rehearsals and player development of the Youth and Junior bands.

The audience on a very special evening was full of many old friends and ex-players who had travelled be a part of his special occasion. Many of them also joined the Concert Band on stage in a massed band finale that also featured the current Youth and Junior Bands.

Stewart was greeted with a standing ovation from the audience and players to honour his incredible dedication, talent and commitment, whilst in his honour a new award for sustained commitment and dedication to the organisation has been set up, with Stewart the first, and most deserving recipient.

Thanks

Afterwards he thank everyone for their kindness and support and reserved a special message for the love and support he has received from his wife Jan throughout his banding career.

As a result of the concert, over £2000 has been raised for Stewart's nominated charity, Cancer Research UK.