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| Photo by Esther Bunning |
Born in England in 1952, he lived in New Zealand since 1963 and made his name in bands such as Sonny Day’s band, Tamburlaine, Streak (which eventually became Mi-Sex), The Heartbreakers, Midge Marsden’s Country Flyers, the 1860 Band and the Rodger Fox Big Band [source].
He performed overseas, "playing concerts in Poland, London (at Ronnie Scott’s), Hong Kong, New York, LA, two appearances at the Montreux Jazz Festival, as well as having the opportunity to travel to London’s famous Abbey Road Studios to record with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.... he wrote material for well known New Zealanders; Mi-Sex, Sharon O’Neill, Rodger Fox Big Band, Jon Stevens and Annie Crummer..." [source: robwinch.com]
ADDED Tributes to Rob Winch, via ashack.co.nz, who report Rob died "8th August 2012 from infection complications after receiving a bone marrow transplant for leukemia."
I first met Rob about 1968, he was like a breath of fresh air, so positive and happy about everything he did. He played bass on my first solo album in 76' along with Billy Brown on drums, they were known as the best rhythm section in Wellington. Rob was the total professional, and such a nice guy, sadly missed, but, thanks Rob for sharing your talents and friendship - Steve McDonald
So sad to hear this news, so soon after his great brother Martin died - George Burrell
RIP Rob Winch...a Great Kiwi Musician. Sadly - Ray Columbus
Rob Winch was truly a musician I have always admired. Not just for his superb musianship, but for his passion for those in the music industry. I did not do a lot of work with Rob, but I always felt the love of his music in his sunny and wonderful personality. A great man....who will be truly missed, by me, and all musicians - Gray Bartlett MBE
I am very saddened to read this news, although I'd didn't know Rob well, I saw him perform many many times at the 1860. We played the same stage many times and he was always a man on a mission. A consumate musician, a great roll model and mentor - Bruce Aitken
Another good man down. Will be sadly missed - Alan Galbraith
Yes, Rob was one of the nice guys - Rick Bryant
Sad to hear about Rob, he was the musical producer on a "Keeping Safe" audio/visual programme I was involved with years ago, very professional, talented and pleasant to work with - Rochelle Vinsen
Such sweet memories of working with you Rob. See you on the other side to make more music. RIP - Bridgette Allen
This is a sad loss of one of our most talented musicians - Neil Harrap
2 comments:
And Rob wrote the theme music for Parliament TV (which started broadcasting in 2007). Wonderful music. The karanga which comes just before 2pm always sends a shiver down my spine.
I have awesome memories from the many occasions I saw the 1860 Band in the late 70s. The level of musicianship on that stage was mind boggling to a young aspiring musician as I was at the time.
They covered all bases from funk to subtly styled jazz rock and blues. Seeing them was a musical education in style and precision I will never forget!
Rob and Martin were phenomenal but there was always the perceptionin that band that they were 'first among equals'! May the memories live on!
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