Music of Life wishes to record its deepest thanks to Ray Longbottom, who steps down as Chair after 17 years of exceptional service to the charity.
Ray has played a central role in the life of Music of Life over nearly two decades. Under his leadership, the charity has grown significantly in reach, strengthened its governance and built the foundations for its next phase of development, while remaining true to its mission of transforming the lives of disabled children and young people through music.
Throughout his tenure, Ray has brought commitment, judgement, steadiness and generosity in abundance. He has supported the charity through periods of growth, change and external challenge, including the considerable demands of the COVID period, helped guide the Board with warmth and clarity, and worked closely with colleagues across Music of Life to ensure that the organisation remained resilient, ambitious and focused on the children and young people it exists to serve.
The Board and staff are profoundly grateful for all that Ray has given to Music of Life over the past 17 years. His contribution has been extraordinary, and his legacy will be felt for many years to come.
Maria Teterina, Chief Executive of Music of Life, said:
“Ray has given Music of Life an enormous amount over the last 17 years. His leadership, wisdom and unwavering commitment to the charity have helped shape Music of Life into the organisation it is today. He has been a source of great support to me personally and to the wider Board, and we are all deeply grateful for everything he has done.”
Music of Life warmly thanks Ray for his outstanding service and looks forward to celebrating his contribution properly as the charity begins its next chapter.
