Everyone remembers a good teacher…
These last few weeks were overshadowed by the sad news of my beloved teacher and concert pianist James Gibb passing away in London on the 16th June 2013.
Jimmy was not only an amazing musician but an inspiration in all senses, a loyal friend and a fantastic human being, who was there for me in the hardest of times… I am so glad to have seen Jimmy smiling few weeks ago, just before leaving for Italy, as always, with music scores in his hands, as Jimmy was playing and practicing daily at the age of 95! So many special memories of our times together, like going to Africa together ten years ago… Jimmy was 85 and we two went to Malawi for some concerts together, it was such an amazing trip!.. For many years he was the head of piano department and then a Professor Emeritus at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London and I had the honour to be his last student at the GSMD. He had an incredibly open mind and was happy for me to play George Crumb’s ‘Makrokosmos’ intricate pieces for prepared piano, alongside with Mussorgsky ‘Pictures’ and Bach… After graduating I felt it was important for me to continue in a new direction and to study singing, Jimmy understood this completely and fully supported my decision. Without me asking, he offered to be my guarantor, when I needed to take a student loan from the bank… A sign of loyalty, he said, yes, a kind of loyalty and trust I will always remember… The manager of the bank was surprised and impressed and offered me this loan without a guarantor, thanks to Jimmy for coming in with me, willing to show everything he had and to pledge for me!
A Pisces like me, Jimmy was born on 7th March, in the year 1918. When asked how old he was, he would say ‘I don’t remember!’ as he only looked ahead and always with such positive attitude and great humour. Jimmy was truly an exceptional human being, always so warm and caring, I give thanks for the privilege to have known him.
And for sure, those we love, live on in our hearts… I want to take this moment to remember Jimmy and all those who are not with us any longer…
Love Lola
xXx
Author
lolatours@hotmail.com