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| Martin Read rehearsing Sea Woman, Winchester 2010 |
We are hearing that the inspirational, Alton (Hampshire)-based composer/educator Martin Read died of a heart attack a few days ago at the age of just 50. His influence is massive: his website lists just a few of the highly talented musicians who benefited from his teaching and guidance. A tribute will follow on these pages in the next few days. Deepest sympathies to family, friends and former pupils and colleagues. A major loss at a cruelly early age. RIP.
Categories: miscellaneous
as a friend and colleague at Alton College for 12 years I can say that Martin was an inspirational teacher and huge influence on all who met him, worked with him and were taught by him. he had a massive love for music of all sorts and enthused all around him to try new stuff. there is an impossible hole to fill now.
Laura
Funeral at Basingstoke Crematorium Thursday 20th September, 12.30. Flowers from family only. Contributions to Key Changes Music Therapy, or to the British Heart Foundation
Its hard to believe that one man could personally influence and enrich so many peoples lives, but Martin was not like everyone else. He was an educator of the highest caliber, a prolific, forward thinking composer and musician, an enthusiast for life, a father and a husband.
At Alton College, guided by a combination Martin's sheer enthusiasm and Joie de vive, I discovered a whole new world of music, that was mine to have if I really wanted it. With a passion for all areas of music, from Gamalean, to Joni Mitchell and Stravinsky, Martin's unwaveringly enthusiastic and dedicated teaching introduced me (and so many others) to a life of music, and all the joys and rewards such a life could bring. I will never forget the truly inspirational lessons spent dissecting Webern, transcribing Wayne Shorter, learning about 32 bar pop songs, or playing Brecker tunes like 'Skunk Funk' and Corea's 'Spain' in the college Jazz Band. More than this, I remember the Jazz band gigs both at the college and in pubs around Alton (the Hen and Chicken, French Horn, etc), which were renowned by students and parents alike, as well as all the other extra-curricular trips Martin tirelessly organised. These moments shaped us young, impressionable students, and taught us not only about music, but also about life.
I was lucky enough to study with and get to know such an extraordinary person. Martin carved for me the path in life I subsequently chose to take, and for that I will be eternally grateful. His music, passion for teaching, and his way of enjoying every moment of life will live on in all of us. Instead of mourning, we must be thankful that such an inspirational and prolific presence made such a difference, in such a short time.
Fini,
Beautiful post.
I feel like I met him a little, through your words.
I was glad to.
MW.