For Fergus: a tribute to a titan of the community

It's that time of year again: concert season. With just a few weeks to go, preparations are well underway for the Chester Community Orchestras' annual summer concert - a celebration of all they have achieved as ensembles through another year of hard work and determination.

This year, however, was also one tinged with sadness as the Modelski Music community said an unexpected farewell to one of its longest-standing players.

Fergus with his beloved double bass

For those who have supported our orchestras at their performances, double bassist Fergus O'Brien would have been a familiar figure on stage. Having started his musical journey in 2011 as a student of Jan Modelski, he swiftly rose through the ranks of the Chester Community Orchestras and became an integral part of the team - always there to encourage other players and help out with jobs at rehearsals and concerts. He subsequently joined Wirral Community Orchestra, where he played for several years, and has also recently started rehearsing with Chester Sinfonia; his playing in the past few years was made even more enjoyable with the introduction of his prized 60th birthday present: a new double bass.

Aside from his incredible commitment to our musical community, Fergus had many other passions in life: he worked in the water industry for 38 years and was a passionate environmentalist; he also loved long books, terrible (according to wife Fiona!) movies, cooking, travel, cycling and spending time with his friends and family. We don't know how he managed to fit it all in!

Fergus was kind, caring and generous; his sudden death earlier this year has left a big hole in our community. So, in celebration of his life and all he contributed to his ensembles, Chester Community Orchestra have dedicated their upcoming concert to Fergus. We know he'll be there in spirit!

We'd love to have a full house for Fergus, so do come along to support our players and enjoy an evening of fine entertainment by some of our community's most talented musicians. What better way to spend a Saturday evening?!

CCO's Tribute To Fergus O'Brien, 7pm on Saturday 4th July @ Queens Park High School, Handbridge.

Tickets available on the door: adults £6 / under 18s FREE

www.playwithcco.org.uk