Bob Whittet, lifelong musician

A lifelong musician who grew up in a musical family, Bob says both his parents remained active in music for their entire lives. “I saw first-hand what a wonderful gift having music in your life can be. I think that's one of the reasons I've always been keen to support the work of the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus. They both provide an opportunity for musicians to perform with ensembles that can present great works of music from the classical repertoire — a gift to both the musicians and our audience.”

When Bob retired in 2000 from his years as a band, choir and orchestra teacher and school administrator in the Sooke School District, he was a natural for Norman Nelson, who recruited him in 2005 for the board of the Sooke Philharmonic Society. “It’s not that much work,” Norman said memorably. “You’ll see.”

Bob has been on the board for 12 years — five as president — and has assisted with concert stage management since 2006. He is currently back serving as president. “We have an excellent board,” he says. “They get things done and make my job easy.”

A music teacher in Edmonton, Victoria and Sooke, Bob has always believed in music as an important component of children’s education. It teaches work ethics, creativity, and the importance of taking responsibility and being part of a team. Bob was president of the SPS board when they helped initiate the Harmony Project in Sooke.

The past 1-1/2 years have been challenging for the board and conductors, who have kept going with outdoor mini concerts, online video performances and the virtual garden tour. Bob has worked with vice-president Kim Lajeunesse to create a video for BC Culture Days that highlights several of these events (available at sookephil.ca and on the BC Culture Days website in late September). On August 29, 2021 at Ed Macgregor Park, the orchestra kicked off its fall season with the Philharmonic Fling. “We're back!”, says Whittet.

Bob is a member of the Sooke Philharmonic Chorus, which, like the orchestra, will resume rehearsals. His instrument is string bass, and his duo, Fine Brew, often performs in Victoria and Sooke at house parties, benefits and shows. An avid hiker, Bob and his canine “fitness coach” Emma can often be seen on trails throughout southern Vancouver Island.

Here’s a man who likes to keep busy!