On Sunday 9th February 2020, John Franklin played his final concert as a member of the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra’s flute section.
John’s record with the orchestra is amazing. He has been a member for 52 years and Principal Flute for 44 of those. Hardly missing a rehearsal or concert during that time he has not only led the flute section but also contributed hugely to the running of the orchestra.
John has twice been BPO Chairman, each for a period of eight years. During his times as Chairman the BPO has performed many amazing works with highlights being Mahler’s 8th Symphony, in the Royal Albert Hall, the Great Hall of the University of Birmingham and Symphony Hall, and a concert performance of Das Rheingold in Symphony Hall.
On Sunday John was thanked for everything he has done for the BPO and his wife, Sue, for supporting him throughout. Sunday’s concert was a particularly poignant time with the concert remembering people who have played with the BPO and are no longer with us.
Thankfully John is still here and we hope to see him at many BPO concerts in the future.
Very sorry to hear about Tony . Back in the 60s , 70s , I would often deputise for Tony at events so that he was available to play BPO concerts . I played a handful of concerts with BPO years ago including Mahler 8 at Albert Hall . Also sorry to hear of Mike and Sue who I also remember . Regards , John Kendrick.