Milngavie oboe player’s 2,020km charity trek to make music

Adrian Wilson, principal oboe player for the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) has raised almost £6,000 after taking on the mammoth challenge over the past year.

Money is still coming in and all the funds will go towards three charities working in music education. His original target was £3,000.

Adrian, who crossed the finishing line a couple of weeks ago, said: “When I was growing up I was fortunate enough to have access to free one-to-one instrumental lessons in school and to experience and perform in a variety of inspirational youth ensembles.

“It saddens me that, for many young people, this is no longer possible due to the decline in financial support and importance given to music in schools.

“I strongly believe that the creative power, the freedom, the confidence, the collaboration, the discipline and passion that music can provide should be accessible to all.

“Despite all the evidence showing its positive benefits in all facets of life, it remains 
a marginalised and under-supported part of our education.”

Adrian added: “Despite being injured twice, getting lost in the North York Moors national park, running in the pitch black and getting battered by some fairly awful weather, I have really enjoyed the experience!”

The three charities benefiting from Adrian’s charity challenge are RSNO Engage (https://www.rsno.org.uk/engage/), Music in the Round (http://www.musicintheround.co.uk) and The Nicola Benedetti Foundation (https://www.benedettifoundation.org).

A RSNO spokesperson said: 2020 has been a challenging year for the arts. Adrian’s efforts are raising attention and awareness in the music community.”

You can donate to Adrian’s efforts at : https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/2020for2020