The [bclink id=”938″ target=”_blank”] (Bandmaster John Lam) is saddened to announce the loss of one of its alumni, Lt.-Colonel William Kerr.
One of five brothers from Vancouver, four of whom became Salvation Army officers, Kerr was appointed to the Canadian Staff Band in 1973 and played euphonium alongside Major Bill Brown until 1980. It will be recalled that Major Norman Bearcroft, founding bandmaster of the Staff Band, composed the euphonium duet Timepiece for the “two Bills” in 1973. This item became a staple of the band’s repertoire and was used for many years afterwards.
Following his service with the Staff Band, Kerr served in various administrative appointments with the Salvation Army. For many years, while stationed at Territorial Headquarters in Toronto, he led the North Toronto Youth Band. Retiring as an officer in 1993, he maintained his interest in banding and became a senior bandsman at North Toronto, a position that he held until April 2010.
Kerr’s lasting legacy is the influence that he had on many young people who grew up under his leadership and who will be forever grateful for his support and encouragement.
Source:
[bclink id=”938″ target=”_blank”] web site