On October 1st, the long serving president of said BG society Andrew Bicknell passed away in his sleep aged 64.
The WBS formed shortly after the US Embassy sponsored concert on July 27 1989 in Wellington New Zealand. The band was the BCH Quartet featuring Byron Berline, Dany Cray, John Hickman, and Steve Spurgin. After the concert, Andrew and I discussed the likelihood of establishing a BG society in Wellington. Our largest city Auckland had established one in 1982 and is still running. Andrew and a few others formed a committee (with Andrew as president) and ran it like that for about 4 year, when Andrew took over and single headedly ran it until his passing. It was highly successful and put live bluegrass music on the map regionally. The funeral was held last Friday 9th
Andrew Bicknell passing
Because Andrew single handedly ran the society, it is uncertain if anyone will step up and continue the work. It remains to be seen.
My condolences, Wayne. I hope the organization keeps going.
quote:
Originally posted by chuckv97My condolences, Wayne. I hope the organization keeps going.
Thanks Chas. It was discussed with BG muso's at the funeral. Not sure what will happen.
Sounds like he was a positive force in our corner of the world
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