The APRS (Association of Professional Recording Services) Sound Fellowship Academy celebrated its tenth year by commemorating the life of its late president Sir George Martin CBE at The Kensington Roof Gardens last week, where a host of industry professionals came together to pay tribute and share stories at a lunch hosted by Lady Martin and her family.

The importance of supporting the next generation of industry engineers, producers, writers and artists was not forgotten and many producers and artists reflected on the opportunities Martin had given them throughout their careers.

Paul Gambaccini, American-British radio and television presenter, compered the lunch activities with a combination of stories from guests and a video of dedicated memories. The stories took guests on a journey of Sir George’s lifetime achievements and approaches to recording internationally acclaimed music. Those who contributed to the day included Sir Paul McCartney, Trevor Horn, Mark Knopfler, Peter Gabriel, Ken Scott, Peter Filleul, Malcolm Atkin, Ken Townsend, Dave Harries, Maggie Rodford and many more.

The event raised funds for The Monserrat Foundation, and the Young Person’s Concert Foundation, two of the charities supported for many years by Sir George and Lady Martin. Montserrat’s hon. premier, Donaldson Romeo, flew into London especially for the event and gave thanks for Sir George’s support over the years.

Lucie Kitchener, Sir George Martin’s daughter, closed events with a touching speech written by her brother Giles Martin who was stuck in New York. Kitchener said that with her father it was “Never about the business of making music but the making of the music”. Lucie also reflected on Sir George’s work with the Monserrat Foundation and his mentality of “If you build it they will come.”

(Photo credit: Judy Totten)

http://www2.aprs.co.uk/