Prof George Malcolm Pratt

Hearing, briefly, a snippet of the Master Singers singing the shipping forecast as Anglican chant (on the BBC programme Front Row 2024) reminded me of what George had contributed to those of us lucky to be at Keele University in the late 60s. Each year he set up 'self help for chamber music' - a listing of all those interested in playing music along with their approximate skill level. Keele did not have a full music faculty at that time, but thanks to that initiative I had the opportunity to play Brandenburg Concertos on a Sunday evening, and be part of a 'contemporary music' ensemble that played at the New Universities Festival. My skill level was minimal (he let me into the university orchestra as long as I had the judgment to know when to not atttempt my part!) So many opportunities I had which I would not otherwise have had. There's even a commissioned work out there - a setting of e e cummings poem 'in time of daffodils' with a particularly easy bassoon part especially for me! Thank you so much for the opportunities you gave us as (in my case very) amateur musicians.

Angela McKee

I am very sorry to hear of George's death. I new him from Keele university where I was organ scholar in the laet 1960's.His enthusiasm for early music was inspirational and I valued his kindnes. His father taught me organ before I attended Keele. I extend my sypathy to al the family.
Knd regards
Tim Biddle