Hitting the Right Note

A group of talented blind and partially sighted musicians have showcased their skills at an event at London’s Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

The musicians and composers, all of whom have developed careers in singing, performing or composing across a wide range of instruments, performed for an audience of music professionals, blind and partially sighted people, and partner organisations.

The event celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund, a legacy donation administered by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) that provides vital support for musicians with sight conditions in the UK.

“We really want to say a big thank you to Elizabeth Eagle-Bott for her visionary gift which has supported generations of brilliant musicians,” said RNIB’s Chair of Trustees, Anna Tylor.

“The evening was a celebration of an exceptionally talented group of people. We know how much this bursary has meant to the musicians involved; for many, it has been absolutely vital in helping them get the foothold they needed in the music industry.

“Without it, many of them wouldn’t have been able to explore their talents, develop stage confidence, or simply sound as good as they do today.

“RNIB is delighted to be part of the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund as it’s such an incredibly rewarding experience, and we hope the fund can continue to support the careers of many more exceptional musicians.”

Performers included British composer, clarinettist and former Paraorchestra Associate Music Director, Lloyd Coleman; composer, collaborative artist, music teacher and clarion player, Gareth Churchill; acclaimed soloist and graduate of Canterbury Christ Church University, Charlotte Hardwick; lyric soprano, Joanne Roughton-Arnold; recorder player and founder member of the British Paraorchestra, James Risdon (pictured below) and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland graduate and tenor, Zachary Smith.

Elizabeth Eagle-Bott was herself a talented musician and was inspired to leave a legacy to RNIB after attending an organ recital by a blind musician. Over 25 years, the Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund has awarded approximately £500,000 to alumni and provided support from specialist equipment to adapted instruments and computers.

To find out more visit https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/education-and-learning/music-education/music-awards-and-funding/

Photo credit: Rahil Ahmad/RNIB.