Sad passing of SBBA honorary vice president Peter Fraser, a towering figure in the world of banding
The Scottish Brass Band Association is devastated to report the passing of Peter Fraser MBE, a towering figure in Scottish brass banding and a devoted servant to the musical community for over seven decades.
Peter, SBBA honorary vice president and contest controller for the Scottish Challenge contest, had been an active supporter of Scottish banding for more than 70 years during which time he has had an enduring connection to his beloved Kirkintilloch Band.
His relationship with Kirkie marks one of the most remarkable periods of continuous service in the history of Scottish banding. He contributed as a player, manager, administrator, mentor and, ultimately, president of the organisation.
His leadership, stability and unwavering commitment helped guide the band through triumphs, challenges and generations of change.
Beyond his work in Kirkintilloch, Peter played a vital national role as a SBBA honorary vice president and previously as a long-serving representative for the West of Scotland. His dedication, integrity and passion for the brass band movement earned him widespread respect across Scotland and beyond.
Peter’s unswerving service to Playback Recording Service for the blind and visually impaired as its coordinator earned him the MBE as well as the SBBA President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. These honours that reflected not only his longevity, but also the profound impact he had on the musical landscape and disability services.
To those who knew him, Peter was much more than a leader. He was a constant source of encouragement, wisdom and warmth. His belief in community music and its power to shape lives will remain one of his greatest legacies.
The thoughts of everyone at SBBA are with The Kirkintilloch Band, his family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
“It cannot be overstated how Peter helped to shape Scottish and European banding and SBBA itself and he will be so deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched,” commented SBBA president Carrie Boax.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared in due course.
