Sarcoma UK supported with a donation from the Old Parkonians’ Chapter

Old Parkonians’ Chapter take to the stage to honour a maestro, Bramwell Tovey, with a cheque for £200 to Sarcoma UK

On Sunday, 6 April 2025, Gerry Scott proudly took to the stage to present a cheque for £200 from Old Parkonians’ Chapter No. 4709 to Sarcoma UK, a national charity dedicated to funding life-saving research, providing support, and campaigning for better treatments for all forms of sarcoma, a rare and often overlooked type of cancer that can affect any part of the body.

The donation was made in memory of Bramwell Tovey OC, OM, a distinguished alumnus of Ilford County High School, and internationally renowned principal conductor of both the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and BBC Concert Orchestra. Though celebrated on stages around the world, Bramwell's roots were firmly planted in Redbridge, and it was fitting that a special memorial concert was held at his former school to honour his life and legacy.

The evening was a stirring celebration, with over 70 musicians forming a special orchestra of friends and colleagues under the baton of conductor Jonathan Small. Compèred by Bramwell’s close friend, pianist and composer Roderick Elms, the programme reflected the extraordinary breadth of his career, featuring works by Glinka, Tchaikovsky, Bruckner, Brahms, and Elgar, with a surprise encore that delighted the audience of over 230 guests.

Speaking after the presentation, Gerry Scott, an acclaimed Organist and Choirmaster himself said, “Sarcoma is an extremely rare form of cancer, and Old Parkonians’ are only too pleased to support such a vital cause. We hope our contribution helps ensure that everyone affected by sarcoma receives the best possible treatment, care, and information and that we can help pave the way for even better treatments in the future.”

With final contributions from the memorial concert expected to exceed £5,000, Bramwell Tovey’s memory continues to inspire generosity, music, and hope for a brighter future.

Photos

Top: Gerry Scott (top right in photo) presenting cheque to Sarcoma representative

Bottom: Bramwell Tovey OC, OM