Rotary District Governor, Frank Quinn, has little more than a month left of his year, but he is determined to go out harmoniously and on a high note.
Music, in particular song-writing, has been a life-long passion for Frank, who is District Governor for the 1090 region, covering the Thames Valley.
Being a child of the 60s, artists such as Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton, Gordon Lightfoot have made a huge influence on his musical taste.
Now, he has recorded a collection of songs called ‘Blue Hearts and Purple Flowers’ for a CD which he hopes will raise plenty of funds for two charities – End Polio Now and Hope and Homes for Children.
Frank Quinn has recorded a collection of songs called ‘Blue Hearts and Purple Flowers’ for a CD which he hopes will raise plenty of funds for two charities – End Polio Now and Hope and Homes for Children.
“’Blue Hearts and Purple Flowers’ started as an idea during my District Governor-Elect year,” explained Frank.
“I found a local recording studio who, in turn, introduced me to talented local musicians who were happy to contribute to the project.
“The deadline for completion was District 1090’s Conference in Newbury, when the launch of the album was planned to take place. Despite all the other things going on we did launch the CD in March and thankfully it was well received.
“This is the third collection of songs that I have recorded. The previous two were also raising money for various charitable causes.”
Frank, a member of Thatcham & District Rotary in Berkshire, had planned to revisit clubs in his District to promote the disc but COVID-19 decided to intervene.
This is the third collection of songs that I have recorded. The previous two were also raising money for various charitable causes.”
“I am now in the process of contacting District 1090 Presidents to ask for their help. Firstly, to buy a copy, and then to promote it to their club members when they meet online.
“Their response has been humbling.”
The CD has received airplay. Kennet Radio, which covers Newbury and Thatcham, promoted the album by playing tracks and interviewing Frank. And he featured in a newspaper interview too.
“You won’t be surprised to learn that Rotary is mentioned as often as possible,” he added.
The album has 10 tracks giving 50 minutes playing time and costs just £10.00 inc p&p. For more information, contact Frank at: heftyquinn2@gmail.com
The Welsh have always been known to be great singers and musicians, and David Parsons from Cowbridge Rotary is continuing in that tradition.
The CD has received airplay. Kennet Radio, which covers Newbury and Thatcham, promoted the album by playing tracks and interviewing Frank. And he featured in a newspaper interview too.”
He has been involved with a project to support the Vale of Glamorgan town become dementia-friendly.
David wrote a song for an organisation called ‘With Music in Mind’, and Cowbridge Rotary supported the project by helping with some of the production costs.
“The project has involved me working with a local choir and pupils from our local comprehensive school to explore the role of music in mental and social well-being,” explained David.
“Sadly, the virus crisis has set back the launch, but a video has been produced as part of the project, as well as a CD.”
For more details, contact David at: d.w.parsons@btinternet.com
