A stalwart of the north-east’s music scene is hanging up his baton after a career stretching nearly four decades.
Alistair Macdonald has been involved with the Peterhead Choral Society for the last 38 years and has been both conductor and musical director.
But after playing such a big part in the group’s history, he has decided the time is right to retire.
The 71-year-old said it was time that the Peterhead group looked at a “fresh approach.”
He said: ““An important part of my life is changing now and I felt like it was the right time to go.
“Music is changing, there a lot of demands on choirs and conductors, so I thought it was about time for a fresh approach.
“I shall miss it.”
Mr Macdonald was born in New York after his father met his American mother while serving with the Royal Navy during World War II.
He returned to Aberdeen with his parents after the fighting ended, and ever since his musical activities have very much centred on the north-east.
Mr Macdonald graduated from Aberdeen University and began a career as a teacher and eventually became the principal teacher of music at Peterhead Academy, a post he held for 20 years.
He was awarded an honorary degree by the university in 2015 marking his 50-year musical career.
Mr Macdonald said he is does not what the future holds for him, but he will still be involved with at least one choir.
He said:” I’m open to offers basically.
“I still have the Aberdeen Choral Society and I’m not planning on retiring from it at the moment.”
Marion Macfarlane from Peterhead Choral Society paid tribute to Mr Macdonald.
She said: “He is a complete character and his musicality was very good.
“He was very particular in what he wanted and we would build on that in the weeks before a concert.”
“It is with some sadness that we see him hang up his baton and all Peterhead Choral Society Members past and present express their best wishes for a long and happy retirement.”
A celebratory meal is to be held in honour of Mr Macdonald’s service on Friday, February 2.
Anyone interested in attending is asked to contact Marion Macfarlane on 01346 532462.
