No Other Option

I seem to have taught a number of students in recent years who have either embarked on medical careers or are studying to do so. Whether it be our beleaguered NHS in general or the working conditions of Junior Doctors in particular, sentiments naturally run high. I was asked & inspired to write a piece for some of these ‘medical musicians’ to perform in situations of protest or industrial action; situations in which they felt there was “No OtherOption” than to make their feelings known through their chosen path of protest. There is a deliberate irony in the fact that this piece is written in the style of an upbeat and good-humoured folk reel.

J.M.

Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music. In 2020 Jock was awarded an "Honary Fellowship of the University of Winchester" for services to music education. Currently Jock is working part-time for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama; providing tuition for the Brass Teaching Module. In 2024 Jock was given the award for "Services to Youth" by Brass Bands England.

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