Eb Tuba - Willie Young

Born in Bellshill in 1944, Willie’s early years in the local Salvation Army corps provided him with a background in which the concepts of discipline and commitment were prominent.  In later life, this deference to such principles stood Willie in good stead when, in 1977, he joined the then CWS (Glasgow) Band.  Thus began a career privileged both in its association with many fine musicians and honoured by working alongside and impressive list of the finest conductors, of whom Howard Snell stands out eminently.  Willie holds degrees in music and theology, and most of his working life was as a principal teacher of music in South Lanarkshire (until early retirement in 2007 interrupted his career!).  Without ever attempting to inflict his religious beliefs on his colleagues, Willie insists that his playing experience in the Co-op Band must reflect his views on Christianity… as his little prayer before each performance says –

‘Just as I am, young, strong and free,
to be the best that I can be
for truth and righteousness and thee,
Lord of my life, I come.’