His dedication to music, education and the community will be remembered globally with a new piece of music by a legendary composer.

Members of Warsash Band are fundraising for a fitting tribute to their beloved director of music of many years Jon Audain, who lost his battle with cancer last year. 

They have commissioned Philip Sparke, a celebrated composer noted for his concert band and brass band music, to create an original work dedicated to Jon.

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David Kinloch said: "Jon was a passionate musician and dedicated leader who brought a group of amazing people together to create a community of wonderful music makers.

"He coached the band, inspired individuals and gave so much of himself to make the band what it is today.

"Last year Jon lost his fight to cancer. He was diagnosed the year before and despite treatments and surgery he continued to lead the band right up to the end.

"The band felt that Jon's dedication to music, education and the community needed to be remembered. After much discussion there was actually only one fitting tribute, a piece of music!

"When Jon was in hospital we told him of our plan and he was made up and could not believe that someone like Philip would compose a piece for him. Jon's request was that this piece be a 'bright piece that reflects the sea and water that is central to what Warsash is'."

Members of the band would also like to arrange for a recording of the composition to be made for Jon's family and need to raise more than £6,000.

They feel the new music would be an amazing tribute to  Jon and look forward to bands around the world playing his piece, spreading the names of Jon and Warsash far and wide. 

A Just Giving page set up to raise money towards the commission has already raised more than £500 of the £2,500 target. 

Among those donating, the tributes included those saying it was an 'honour' to have known a 'gem of a human being' who was 'selfless to the end' and a 'fine man'.

Donate at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jon-audain-music