Kirkie’s tribute to one of Scottish banding’s greats – Willie Tennant

The Kirkintilloch Band will be celebrating the memory of one of Scottish banding’s greats at the Wynd Centre, Paisley, on Friday 23 June when it presents a Memorial Concert for Willie Tennant.

Willie joined Kirkintilloch in 1937 on tenor horn and played in every contest the band competed in until 1986, apart from one when he was doing his National Service.

He was known throughout Scottish and British banding not only for his dedication to his band but also for the incredible number of future players he trained.  

In 2001 Willie was presented with the Diploma of the Worshipful Company of Musicians, recognising 64 years of dedication and teaching of young people.

Eight years later he was a recipient of the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award from the Scottish Brass Band Association in recognition of an outstanding lifetime contribution to brass bands in Scotland.

You can read a full biography in tribute to Willie Tennant, written by Peter Fraser, here.

The band will be presenting the concert in conjunction with Willie’s family and hope as many ex-players and friends as possible can attend to celebrate the life of a true legend.  

It is anticipated the concert will be sold out and people are being asked to confirm their attendance by email to thekirkieband@gmail.com indicating the number of tickets required. 

Entry is free and there will be an opportunity to donate to Alzheimer Scotland.