Janet’s story

I’ve lived in the Bournemouth area all my life. When I was a schoolgirl at Talbot Heath School, we used to go to the BSO’s schools’ concerts. We would take the coach to the Winter Gardens, and the place would be full of local schoolchildren. I remember sitting there in my school uniform, wearing a Panama hat and white gloves!

I was at school with Sir Charles Groves’ daughters, Sally and Mary. Charles Groves [Principal Conductor from 1951–1961] used to come and pick them up sometimes, and I remember him waiting outside. So that was a very strong start to my musical journey!

It wasn’t until about 30 years ago that I started coming to concerts more regularly. At first, I came on my own because my late husband was a self-declared “jazz man”! But, to cut a long story short, eventually he ended up coming with me every week.

I’ve enjoyed supporting the Orchestra in all sorts of ways over the years. I used to volunteer, helping out wherever I could, and became a member too. More recently, I decided to increase my regular support and became a Performance Champion because I wanted to do a little more to help the BSO continue its wonderful work.

A gift from the heart

When my husband passed away, I had to make a new Will. It’s one of those things that makes you think about life and what’s important to you. As well as looking after my loved ones, I decided I wanted to leave something to the Orchestra too.

It felt like an easy decision because of how much the BSO means to me. My legacy comes from the heart – I just love the Orchestra! The people and organisations I’ve chosen to remember in my Will are all special to me in different ways. Knowing I’m able to give something back makes me happy. I feel I’ve done the right thing.

I hope my legacy will help the BSO continue bringing music into people’s lives in the future. I’d particularly like my gift to help introduce young children to classical music and encourage them to come to concerts. I got so much pleasure from music as a child, and I’d love future generations to have that same opportunity.

“I hope my legacy will help the BSO continue bringing music into people’s lives in the future.”

A lifetime enriched by music

I love listening to music. I feel like we all need it in our lives, and I’ve always found it very therapeutic. I’ve enjoyed sharing that love with my family, too. When my two eldest grandsons were younger, they used to spend half-term weeks with me, and I’d often bring them along to BSO concerts.

I remember one occasion when the Orchestra was performing a big Shostakovich symphony. My younger grandson, who was about eight, nodded off during the performance. As the music got louder, it eventually woke him up with a start, much to the amusement of those sitting around us!

On the way home, I asked the boys if they’d come again, and they both said yes. I think it had all been quite an education for them!

Children taking part in a BSO Schools’ Concert at Lighthouse, Poole

Bringing joy to future generations

One of the things I particularly admire about the BSO is how its musicians bring music into hospitals, care homes and schools, reaching people across the region. The schools’ concerts at Lighthouse are a real joy to me, and I love watching the children’s expressions as they experience a live orchestra. I daresay they’re having a similar experience to the one I had all those years ago – although there aren’t any Panama hats or gloves anymore!

I think it’s so important that children have the chance to discover music and experience live performances. You never know where that first encounter might lead. By leaving a gift in my Will, I hope to help the Orchestra continue bringing music to people of all ages for many years to come.

I’d encourage anyone who enjoys the concerts, and is able to, to consider leaving a gift in their Will too. It’s a lovely feeling to know you’re helping bring happiness to future generations.

“By leaving a gift in my Will, I hope to help the Orchestra continue bringing music to people of all ages for many years to come.”

Our heartfelt thanks to Janet, and to everyone who has chosen to remember the BSO in their Will. Your generosity helps secure the Orchestra’s future, supporting the music, performances and community work that make the BSO so special.

If leaving a gift in your Will is something you’re considering, find out more about leaving a lasting musical legacy. Alternatively, if you’d rather speak to someone in person, please call Faith Bayley on 01202 644711 or email fbayley@bsorchestra.co.uk.