Adrian Hobbs was another “late starter”, taking up the alto saxophone when he was 70. He now wishes he had done it all a lot sooner.
“I started learning the alto saxophone in 2014 at the age of 70, having never learned an instrument before. However, I guess my favourite instrument is the tenor saxophone, for the depth and richness of sound achievable, and the individuality that each player can bring to the instrument.
“I joined the Band after I had been playing for a couple of years, and remember the incredible warmth of greeting, and the acceptance of a very inexperienced player. I like being part of a group all playing together. I also enjoy the learning, and progress I have made in sight reading and the understanding of music.
“Of the music I have played since being in the Band, I love any of the Glenn Miller pieces, but my favourite would be ‘In the Mood’, probably because it reminds me of my father so much.
“Outside music I am a professional photographer, I am a glider pilot (nowadays rarely) and enjoy visiting art galleries and setting up small exhibitions.
“Learning to play a musical instrument, and joining a band, can be done at any age. It’s a life-enhancing and life-changing experience, my only regret is that I didn’t do it years ago.”
