Their music may come from years gone by, but the Georgian Sound big band think about the future, too.

Recently, the band awarded its 2007 Bob Cringan Music Scholarship to Michael Brough.

He’s the fourth recipient of the scholarship, which is in memory of Bob Cringan, the Georgian Sound’s founder and, for many years, its leader.

Brough plays bass, guitar, violin, French horn, trumpet, and piano.

He recently graduated from Georgian Bay Secondary School where he studied music under teacher Patrick Delaney. He has played with the Georgian Sound, Georgian Bay Symphony, and in numerous small ensembles at events throughout the area. Brough has been accepted to continue his studies in music at the University of Toronto.

Past recipients of the Bob Cringan Scholarship have been:
Sarah Clark (2004), who is now in her fourth year in the music program at McMaster University, and will continue to play with the Georgian Sound next year

Stephanie Lowe (2006), who has played alto saxophone with the Georgian Sound the past four years but is leaving to study journalism at Carlton University.

Tony Crawford (2006), a trombonist with the Georgian Sound the past five years who is also heading to Carlton to study psychology.

“It is a joy to have these young people in the band,” Doreen Norris said in making the presentation.

“They add such energy, enthusiasm, and humour, combined with a professional approach to their music.”

She added that the band members wish the students well in their studies and look forward to seeing them return in the future.

“It is the younger generations who can best help with the Georgian Sound’s mandate to keep big band music alive.”