A PASSIONATE teacher who involved himself in many musical activities in Bromsgrove has died after contracting Covid-19.

Multi-instrumentalist Bernard Hall-Mancey, who taught at Bromsgrove School, died on Thursday, April 2 at the age of 77 after he was hospitalised.

Bernard was born in Earley near Reading in September 1942. He graduated from the Royal College of Music as an Associate with an ARCM diploma and also held the Graduate of the Royal Schools of Music qualification.

After attaining his degree, Bernard went on to Birmingham University where he gained his DipEd teaching qualification.

In 1975, Bernard moved to become director of music for Bromsgrove School and created opportunities for pupils and parents to sing in choral works in a very ‘inclusive’ society.

He often spoke about pupils he met later in life who said the experience of being able to take part in singing sparked a love of music in them and in some cases caused their lives to go in a different direction.

During this period, the pianist and organist was also the conductor of the Brierley Hill Choral Society.

Following his departure from Bromsgrove School in 1987, Bernard became a full-time examiner and his travels took him all over the world, helping thousands of children to develop their music skills.

His obituary reads: "Bernard gained a great deal of satisfaction in giving back through the generosity of his time, experience and knowledge. In later years he gave freely of his time to help at Bromsgrove School.

"He adjudicated brilliantly for numerous music competitions and accompanied staff and students on many cathedral trips with the chapel choir.

"Bernard also remained actively engaged in music within his local community and was committed to helping musical youngsters.

"He was a very enthusiastic supporter of the orchestra at St John’s Church in Bromsgrove and joined their organising committee as a valued and hugely knowledgeable contributor.

"He also assisted the David Morgan Trust, a body set up to help young musicians in the Bromsgrove and Worcester area and he was also the secretary, right up until his untimely passing, of Bromsgrove Concerts.

"His love of music has inspired the many thousands of students he has taught over his lifetime.

"Above all Bernard was one of the kindest and generous people you could wish to meet.

"He got along with everyone, no matter their station in life, and had the ability to light up a room with his wit and anecdotes, often accompanied by hilarious impressions.

"He was adored and loved by his daughters Susan and Gillian, their husbands Elliot and Mark, his wider family and especially his grandchildren (Tom, Eleanor, Edward, Robyn and George), his wide circle of friends and numerous past students, many of whom had stayed in touch with Bernard some 40 years after being taught by him.

"He is very much missed by all who knew him and the world has lost a true gentleman."