Jackie Braithwaite
For a number of years, during the earlier history of the NWEMF Summer School, two of our most loyal supporters were a married couple, both then based in Cumbria: John and Jackie Braithwaite. John, a definite ‘character’, played sundry wind instruments, and made others, while Jackie was a very capable and enthusiastic soprano singer. After John died, and Jackie moved down to live in North Wales, she also took part in some Mostly Music activities, including tours overseas. Throughout this time she, like John earlier, was a member of NWEMF who, in addition to summer schools, also took part in occasional workshops until increased frailty and mobility problems prevented her continued involvement. In fact Jackie, who died last year aged 93, in her daughter Sarah’s words ‘spent two very happy years in a wonderful care home reading books’. A remarkably dynamic and enterprising lady, she was still driving until the age of 86 and making her own bread until 88.
John, in addition to his playing, was active as an instrument maker, who in fact spent long hours making a set of virginals. In her will Jackie, with great generosity, has bequeathed this instrument to NWEMF for the use of its members.
It may be choral singers in particular, especially sopranos, who retain the most vivid memories of Jackie. She was a delightful, friendly, very kind lady, whom it is a genuine pleasure to have known. May she rest in peace.
Roger Wilkes
Published in February 2016 Newsletter
