This special concert celebrates the legacy of Rodney Collenette, who died in October 2024 and whose vision and determination gave Guernsey the cherished St James concert hall.
In November 1980, faced with plans to turn the venue into a police station and abandon expensive plans for its conversion into a cultural space, Rodney began a campaign that would change history. Just one day after the pivotal States Resolution, he and his friend Richard De La Rue rallied support. This included a memorable acoustic demonstration by the Coull Quartet, performing among scattered Odeon seating to sway decision-makers. Thanks to that near three year campaign the States approved plans for a simple restoration of St James which eventually opened as a concert and assembly hall in July 1985.
Now, the Coull Quartet return to honour Rodney with a performance that includes Dvořák’s beloved Piano Quintet No. 2 in A Major, joined by Guernsey born pianist Tom Hicks.
The first half of the evening includes a fireside chat with Ricahrd de la Rue and dramatic readings from The Book of Ebenezer Le Page — with which Rodney was closely associated on stage — performed by Simon De La Rue. These will be interwoven with short movements for string quartet by various composers, culminating in the premiere of a new arrangement of Sarnia Cherie by Angus MacRae.
Join us in remembering a man whose passion and perseverance created a lasting cultural legacy for the island.
This concert is kindly sponsored by Collenette Jones and by Greville and Lisa Mitchell. Their generosity has made it possible for all of the proceeds from ticket sales to be used to establish a Piano Maintenance Fund. This will ensure the Steinway housed at St James continues to receive expert care.
Doors: 6pm | The evening starts with a fireside chat at 7pm
