Wilf Parsons

1922 - 2003

Wilf Parsons, member of Michelmersh Silver Band for 76 years, died on 9th January. Known to all who knew him as Wilf, Mr Parsons began playing in the band at the age of eight. An accomplished euphonium player, Wilf's association with the band was interrupted only by his service years in the Army when he continued his music playing in dance bands whilst stationed in Doncaster and in Germany. He was Bandmaster and conductor of the band from 1956 - 1986 and became a familiar figure leading the band on the contesting stage at Wessex Brass Band Association summer and winter contests throughout that time. Wilf maintained his interest to the last, enjoying MSB's recent contesting successes as much as the players, and conducting the band as an honoured guest last summer at the opening of the newly constructed bandstand in Romsey, Hampshire. The band was led in a minute's silence as Wilf's death was announced at rehearsal, paying tribute to Wilf's legacy of a generation of brass players taught and encouraged by him.