West Norfolk Schools band’s music boss returns to where it all began

A former student who pursued a career as a globetrotter in the music industry is about to return to where it all began.

Robin Norman was a professional tuba player and editor before entering teaching.

But, now he takes over the Music Director of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, which means a return to his old school after more than three decades.

He said, “Springwood is where my musical life began in 1984, a musical life that took me around the world as a performer and practitioner of music.

“I consider it a real honor to go back to where it all started for me, to inspire the next generation of musicians,” he said.

Mr. Norman succeeds Peter Strudwick, who was Springwood’s musical director when he was a student.

He said: “I was very lucky to start in Springwood at a time when music was at a peak within the school with many musicians who used it as a career in some way. ‘another one.

“Not only did I start out as a musician in Springwood, but when I transitioned into teaching, Springwood was my first training camp.

“Later when I graduated my first job was at St Clement High School, another Trust school, so the Trust has played a major role in my life and career in music, supported by eager teachers. to share the passion they have for a fantastic musical experience.

“I want to share with the young people of West Norfolk so that they can see that music is a viable choice at both A level and diploma level and that the opportunities to make a living in music are there, from the do in a subject that you like.

“The opportunities for Trust students are unparalleled with bands, orchestras, choirs and other groups, but there is a real understanding of what music means to people; a real subject for all.

“Above all, what I will bring to the role is the absolute conviction that everyone has a talent in something and that every young person can enjoy music.

“Our job is to find that passion and encourage it to make young people the adults we know they can be. “

And, after the lockdown disruption, Mr Norman, who joins the Ken Stimpson Community School Trust in Peterborough, said he wanted group activities to resume and operate again as soon as possible.

“Music is essentially a social subject where teamwork and the ability to express oneself are essential.

“This has made foreclosure an incredibly difficult proposition for music education, but where there is a will, there is a way!” He said.

“I can’t wait to start the group activities properly. Music is really a community building, a community of friends that can last a lifetime.

“I experienced it firsthand, now I can’t wait to help others experience the same – what more can I ask for in a job? “