VALERIE HARWOOD

In memory of our wonderful 'Val Harwood'.

It is with profound sadness that The New Redbridge Wind Orchestra announced the passing of Val Harwood on the 9th of April 2025.

Val joined the Orchestra on the 16th of January 1997 and was a great asset to the clarinet (and on occasion, the percussion) section.

She also supported Miles in his musical director role behind the scenes and was the founder of our very successful ‘100 Club’ raising funds for the band for many years. Val always helped at concerts selling entrance tickets and tickets for the raffle. She welcomed everyone to every venue with her famous smile.

She loved playing music from all genres, but she really loved music from Musicals and her stand out favourite was ‘South Pacific'.

A lovely quote received from a former band member speaks for us all.

“Val was the welcoming face of NRWO and made everybody feel welcome - nobody would stand alone if she was in the room.”

Words cannot express how much Val will be missed. Val was such a special lady, a real ray of sunshine with such a caring nature. Her kindness radiated out from her smile and has left an imprint on our hearts that will never fade.

The New Redbridge Wind Orchestra.