We’re delighted to announce that Bill Dove, NYCOS Edinburgh Choir Director, was awarded a British Empire Medal at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Honours for his services to music and young people.
Bill has been involved with NYCOS Edinburgh Choir in various capacities since 1998; his long-standing service proving to be both invaluable and inspirational to NYCOS and its members.
How it began
His involvement with the NYCOS Edinburgh Choir began when his daughter Kimmy (who is now a musicianship tutor at Edinburgh Choir herself and became a member of the National Youth Choir of Scotland) became a member. Bill soon became a parent helper and his role progressed from there. In 2002, he was officially appointed as Edinburgh Choir Coordinator.
His love of music
Bill has always loved and has been heavily involved with music. Growing up in a musical family, they would often sing around the piano together and perform party pieces. He also sang at school, in Sunday School, Church, and with the Boys Brigade.
His musical talents also extend beyond singing, as Bill also played drums as part of various music groups including a wedding /ceilidh band and a punk/rock band.
Bill has a broad taste in music, listening to artists such as Bob Chilcott, Eric Whitacre; Pavarotti and even Iron Maiden! He also loves to discover new songs, and being part of the choir has helped him greatly expand his collection.
If being in a choir wasn’t enough, Bill also dedicated his time to his as a DJ at the local Hospital Radio for an impressive 7 years, sharing his passion for music to patients and their relatives.
His highlights of the Edinburgh Choir
“There are too many!” says Bill.
However, he has listed some of the most memorable, which include:
• The ever-successful Aberdeen International Youth Festival, singing Vivaldi’s Gloria.
• Singing for the Scottish Parliament at the Church of Scotland Assembly Halls; followed by an invitation to open new Parliament Building.
• Singing for Queen with West Lothian Choir.
• In the early days, being driven around Edinburgh in an open top bus singing, as part of Songs of Praise Watchnight Service.
• BBC’s Sing Live event at Chamber St. Museum, where Bill then walked up to Edinburgh Castle to sing.
Final words
Bill said ” This award has come completely out of the blue, and I’m so delighted to receive it. It’s something I would never have expected. When the choir get up and sing, I think, yes, that’s why I do it.”
Christopher Bell, Artistic Director of NYCOS said “Our local choir co-ordinators are the vital on the ground team, providing a much-needed link between the central office and the members and their parents. Seeing Bill’s 20+ years in this role being recognised is heart-warming and we are very grateful for all that he has done. Here’s to the next 20!”
Find out more about our Regional Choirs and how to join – here
