It’s very rare that Bruce “Dizzy” Raymond is lost for words, but when the Tanunda Town Band Musical Director heard he was to be recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia, as announced in this year’s Queen’s Birthday honour’s list, he was shocked into silence.
“I was staggered when I received the note from the Governor General’s Office, really stunned,” Bruce told The Leader.
“I wasn’t really sure of what to do or what to say...I’m just very honoured to think that my passion has been rewarded.”
The Gawler grandfather of four has been recognised for his service to music - particularly to brass bands - a genre he developed a love for at an early age.
“I grew up with music in my veins, growing up in the Salvation Army,” Bruce explained.
“I came from a family of brass musicians, my grandfather, father, uncles, were all very good players. So, I guess it was ingrained in my head, I heard it every day, the recordings that dad had and that sound - it’s just something I’ve never lost and the passion is there.”
Known as “Dizzy”during his days as a Sturt footballer, the former professional trumpet player admits to having a competitive nature yet his true gift lies in the leadership and encouragement he provides to others.
“To me, music and sport go together,” he said.
Bruce is regarded as one of the most successful musical directors in Australia, having led school and community bands to win an impressive list of state and national titles, including many with the Trinity College, where he was Director of Bands from 2007 until his retirement in 2019; Kensington and Norwood Brass, which he conducted from 1982-2011, and now Tanunda Town Band.
Bruce has worked with the likes of James Morrison and Tommy Emmanuel, been consultant for music education programmes and festivals and brought high profile musicians to Australia to showcase the brilliance of brass, all in an effort to inspire current and future musicians.
“It was about letting people who would never hear the very best, hear it so that they can get better,” Bruce said.
Proud sons, Nathan and Warwick describe their father as an “energiser bunny” and can’t believe the spirit and enthusiasm the 74 year old has as he continues to arrange music for ensembles to all hours of the night; organise public performances like Melodienacht and the Lions Club of Burnside’s carol’s evening - something he has done for “30 odd years” to raise funds for community p...
