Ian Morrish BA, FTCL, LRAM, ARCM hons, LTCL
( 6th July 1936 – 20th November 2022 )
Ian Morrish, conductor of the Alton Concert Band (ACB), sadly died on Sunday 20th November 2022. His son Jeremy, who deputised for Ian, is now directing and leading the band . He will be building on his father’s work and taking the band to greater heights.
Ian took over the baton of the ACB from Hannah Foulkes in August 2012. During his time as conductor , the band has grown from a small band of about 6 players to the 40+ strong concert band we see and hear today. It was his direction, teaching and inspiration that has made the band what it is today firmly placing it as a high profile Alton Town asset which Altonians are proud of. The band gives about 6 concerts a year ranging village fetes to the annual Wonder of Christmas concert. The main aim is to give amateur musicians the opportunity to play their respective instruments with like minded colleagues within the formality of the concert band. A major spin off is to raise sizeable amounts of money donated to national (RNLI) local charities such as Cardiac Rehab, Bushey Leaze etc
Ian was called up for National Service in 1954 and on completion , entered the RAF School of Music . When his training was completed , he joined the RAF Central Band , which gave him the opportunity of both music making and travel.
During his service life he gained conducting and performance qualifications with The Royal Academy and the Royal College of Music. He was awarded the Trinity College of Music teaching Diploma and was elected a Fellow of the College in 1969.
Ian was presented with the Worshipful Company of Musicians award for “Outstanding Student of the Year” after completing a BA in music education and gaining qualified teacher status.
He was appointed Head of South West Surrey Arts – a position he held for 19 years.
In 2012 , Ian commented that he was delighted to have had the opportunity of working with the Alton Concert Band and hoped that his long experience would be of value in developing the band to its full potential. Well, he certainly did! Ian was respected by band members for his professionalism and dedication to the development of the band. Above all, the band adored Ian for his personality, his manner and regarded Ian as the complete gentleman and skilled musician that he was.