Joan shaped a life of musical memories for Brenda

Brenda Lane always remembered Joan Cormack '“ the West Hartlepool High School for Girls music teacher who transformed her life.
Brenda Lane, memories of her days at West Hartlepool High School for GirlsBrenda Lane, memories of her days at West Hartlepool High School for Girls
Brenda Lane, memories of her days at West Hartlepool High School for Girls

This after our appeal for more information on Joan, Brenda – nee Archer – described how high school shaped a lifelong interest in music.

We featured Joan in a Memory Lane column weeks ago. It prompted Brenda to tell us: “I was encouraged to sight-read the fearsome accompaniment to Schubert’s song ‘The Erlking’ while she conducted the class.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I duly ended up with a science degree, but all this musical education did not go in vain. My interests in music, kindled by Joan Cormack, deepened and my enthusiasm and modest talent were later picked up by another inspirer of folks, Alan Champion, here in Boston.

“I pursued an Open University degree and that made it possible to devote time to part-time extramural work with adults wanting to deepen their musical interests.

“This began in my 30s when heavily involved with and enjoying both full-time teaching in further education and raising a family here in Lincolnshire. I continued the music courses well beyond retirement from my full-time post. Some of my happiest teaching experiences stem from studying music with adults.

“How fortunate are those who meet people early in life who inspire them. Joan Cormack was certainly one of those inspirational people for me.”

Thanks to Brenda for sharing her memories.