We are very sad indeed, to announce that Richard Hunt died; this Wednesday 17th January. 

Richard stepped down from his role as the choir’s Tenor Section Leader at the beginning of December, as he had sadly just been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. 

He endeavoured to remain as a member, to return to singing, as and when he felt able. 

However, at the start of this year, he found that his diagnosis was terminal and untreatable. 

And so he, and his wife; Soprano member, Georgina, relinquished their choir memberships, to focus on his health and quality of life. 

Unfortunately and tragically, Richard died whilst undergoing surgery related to his condition. 

Richard was an experienced singer; previously a member of Guildford Choral – and over the years, had various roles within choir committee, including as a music librarian. 

With a long-standing love of music, and community choir endeavours, even when moved to the Island, Richard continued to maintain a connection with Guildford Choral as a long-term Patron. 

Richard, and Georgina, joined Cantata in September 2021. 

And at our AGM in January 2022, Richard took on the responsibility of Tenor Section Leader, becoming a valued member of the choir committee, contributing his wealth of experience.  

Richard often remarked how much he enjoyed his time singing with us; both at rehearsal and performing in concerts, especially when we were accompanied by full orchestra and professional soloists, but also when the choir took part in extra curricular events. 

Also a keen bell-ringer, of many years, Richard was a member of the ringers at All Saints’ Church, Ryde. 

In his spare time, Richard and Georgina had a great love of yacht cruising; spending last Summer enjoying their trip around the North Spanish coast. 

Our thoughts and warmest wishes are with his wife, friends and family, at this sad time.