Tribute paid to trumpet Tommy
Maybole has more than 10 notable people who reached national fame and recognition.
Norris McWhirter, Alan Dent, Robert McBride are among illustrious names with direct connections to the town.
Even the mother of Robert Burns had residency and family connections in Maybole.
The most famous and celebrated May bole musician was undoubtedly Tommy McQuater, who died at 94 in 2008.
He was a jazz trumpeter for the Jack Parnell Orchestra.
He performed as part of The Muppet Show house band, and received a character showcase in the fifth season playing the horn for Lips.
Born in 1914, Tommy began with the cornet as a child.
Even at age 11, Tommy was a star turn in the Maybole Burgh Band in 1925.
During World War II, he served in the RAF and helped form the military band “The Squadronaires.”
On his return, he performed at the London Palladium and spent time with the Benny Carter and Ted Heath bands, before he joined the Jack Parnell Orchestra at ATV in the 1960s.
Prior to his stint on The Muppets, Tommy played with the Barry Gray Orchestra, heard on the sound tracks for Gerry Anderson’s ‘ Supermarionation’ series, including Supercar, Joe 90, Thunderbirds and Anderson’s live- action series ‘ Space: 1990’.
He remained as an active musician through the 1980s and continued to perform until 2004.
Tommy had many friends and fellow band members in Maybole who admired him as he played with many famous musicians and bands throughout the UK.
Trombone player George Chisholm was often accompanying Tommy for his performances.
In 1960, Tommy handed over a trumpet that he played in the 1940 sand 50 s to a fellow Maybole bandsman, Arthur McColm ( pictured).
In turn, Arthur began to teach one of his twin sons, Eddie, to play the trumpet, while Eddie’s brother played the cornet alongside.
Arthur’s failing health caused his death when the boys were teenagers, and by then they had found other pursuits and jobs in the area, after leaving Carrick Academy.
In January of this year, James presented his brother Eddie for his birthday after keeping it for nearly 60 years.
It was retained in its original box, and had music sheets and three mouthpieces.
A delighted and keen Eddie had the instrument professionaly cleaned and part reconditioned by Tom Brown of Kilmarnock.
The trumpet, on recommendation from Stuart McLean of Ayr Jazz Club, was recently passed to Mike Daly of Coylton for his assessment, who was said to have his mind blown away by the quality.
It will be loaned to the Cumnock Trust group, who will ensure that the trumpet gets use and it inspires the young people involved with the story behind it.