Former Conductor - James Lobban

An accomplished musician, James Lobban was educated locally at Mile-End Primary School and Aberdeen Grammar School before graduating from Aberdeen University with an Honours Degree in Music in 1964. In 1959 he played organ in a performance of the 'Messiah' at Inverurie West Church and in 1962 James became organist at Rutherford Church of Scotland in Aberdeen. 1966 saw James become Principal Teacher of Music at Inverurie Academy and despite this new challenge, he still managed to fit in a solo performance of Mendelssohn's Piano Concerto in G minor with the University Symphony Orchestra the following year. He moved on to become Principal Teacher of Music at Hazlehead Academy, a post he held until shortly before his death.

A dedicated member of St. Machar's Cathedral Choir, James sang bass and in 1981 was promoted to the post of Organist and Choirmaster of the Cathedral, which he held until his death in 2006. In 1987, James became Principal Examiner in Music for Scotland, before stepping down in 1995. 1999 saw James' 30th Anniversary as conductor after he joined Aberdeen Bach Choir on a part-time basis in the 1960s and was promoted to the position of conductor in 1969, becoming largely responsible for the varied repertoire that has been heard over the years. He continued in this position until, after the December 2005 concert, illness forced him to give up his duties, first on a temporary basis and then, as his illness progressed, he resigned as conductor at the end of the 2005-6 season.

James died on Friday 10 November 2006. He is greatly missed.

Tributes to James, whose contribution to the life of the Choir is incalculable, have been written by Robert Wilson and Alison Shiel. An obituary by Gordon Casely appeared in The Herald on 15 November 2006. Alan Falconer, Minister at the Cathedral, delivered a moving tribute at the funeral service held in St Machar's Cathedral on 16 November 2006.

Page last updated 10 April, 2007 by Ian Downie