Musicians performed in tribute to former St Ives headteacher Tony Burgess on Sunday in two concerts to packed audiences at the town’s Corn Exchange.
A room at the venue was named in remembrance of Mr Burgess, pictured, former head at Westfield Junior School, and a bursary is to be established in his memory by ACE – Friends of St Ives Corn Exchange – to encourage and support musicians.
ACE chairman Ian Dobson said: “What made the concert such a big success was the enthusiasm and the high quality of the local artists and groups taking part. It was their tribute to Tony, who was a popular and highly respected headteacher, whose warmth, natural charm and determination had helped save the Corn Exchange and see it re-opened in June 2010.”
Musicians and singers – Tony’s former pupils – spoke movingly about his ‘musical’ school assemblies and about his vital encouragement, Mr Dobson said. They included West End star Leanne Jones, singing trio Charlie Ashley-Burnett, Lucie Ashley and Annie Brooks; singer/guitarist Matt Harvey; flautist Jessica Ely and pianist Jamie Brooks. The choirs of Westfield and Holywell junior schools also performerd.
To make a donation to the Tony Burgess Bursary, contact St Ives Corn Exchange on 01480 496454 or Ros Pascoe by emailing pascoerbg@btinternet.com.
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