Our principal bassoonist Peter Road-Night is taking his final bow this season, having played in the Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra for over three decades! 

Peter says he’s most enjoyed the companionship that being part of the orchestra gives him, having formed firm friendships with players in the woodwind section, and also seeing the orchestra develop over the years to enjoy the high standard of performance it currently enjoys. 

His favourite concert ever was the orchestra’s ‘Opera Highlights’ in Shrewsbury Abbey with North Wales Opera Studio and Company.

Peter spent the first part of his career in Army music - it was as a result of being posted to Shrewsbury (then the Depot of the Light Infantry) as Bandmaster, with responsibility for the training of the Bandsmen and Buglers for the three Light Infantry Bands, that he and his wife ultimately ended up living here once he retired.  

His career then took a complete change and he was appointed Secretary of Shrewsbury Flower Show, a position he held for 27 years.  During his time in the army in Shrewsbury, he made many musical friends and started to get involved in the wider musical scene. 

Having stood in for a few rehearsals for Shrewsbury Symphony Orchestra when the regular bassoonists were unable to attend, he was then invited to join when a vacancy arose - and the rest is history! 

He says of his retirement: “I had always said that I would cut back on my musical commitments when I reached 80, and I also want to go whilst I can still do the job, as we all know of players who have continued past their ‘sell-by dates’, and end up being remembered for the wrong reasons!”

Peter also plays in Meole Brace Chamber Orchestra and conducts the Shrewsbury Light Orchestra - both of which he intends to continue doing. 

We were interested to know - just how long can a bassoonist continue to play?!

“It very much depends on the individual player,” Peter said. “Health obviously plays a big part, particularly in regard to breath control – being able to sustain long notes and play long passages, and maintaining finger dexterity.

“I feel very lucky that Music has played an important part in my life since joining the army as a musician at the age of 16, and has provided me with many opportunities and experiences – for which I am very grateful.”

We are delighted to welcome into the seat Chris Long and Jo Mattinson who will be sharing the role of principal bassoon going forwards.