A former colleague of conductor Brian Jackson is looking forward to seeing the maestro in action in Qualicum Beach on Sept. 19.
Fred Rusticus called The News from his home in Nanaimo this week, hoping to find out more details about the upcoming Victoria Symphony concert at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. The event will feature some of Jackson’s favourite pieces of music — compositions he has enjoyed working with in has 18 years or so as principal Pops conductor for the symphony. Jackson is planning on reducing his workload this year, and become semi-retired.
Rusticus recalled his time as principal trumpet player for Jackson in 1975-’76 with the International Symphony of Sarnia, Ontario and Port Huron, Michigan.
“We had him (as conductor) most of the time,” Rusticus said. “Then, he had a chance to go to the Boston Symphony.”
Rusticus himself still plays the trumpet and now plays both that instrument and the euphonium for both the Oceanside and Nanaimo concert bands.
He said he’ll be checking “his allowance” to see if he can buy tickets to the Qualicum Beach concert.
Tickets are available at Mulberry Bush book stores in Parksville and Qualicum Beach.