‘Legendary’ is an appellation that few people ever properly merit, but in the music world and amongst those who know him, Chris Dowie has earned this prefix, and then some! I can think of only a handful of people who have made the kind of difference to the musical life of a region as has Chris. So many of us - young , old, once-young and now a bit older maybe - owe him the most profound debt of gratitude for his endlessly self-less giving of himself, in music, in education, in worship and in creativity. His encyclopaedic knowledge is only matched by his humility, and the warmth and passion of his personality infuses everything he does, and always has done. This celebration of his contribution through Wimborne Choral Society will feature some of his superb music, which has such depth of emotion and such beautiful, fine-wrought skill. The man is a legend, and legends must be celebrated! Bringing his own music alive in the place to which he has devoted his life is a fitting and wonderful thing, and contributing funds here and now to do this for him is in many ways a privilege for us all to be a part of.

I've known Chris for over 35 years, when my family moved down to Dorset, and he has been inviting me to sing in the Minster with WCS ever since. There have been Bach Passions, the Messiah, Britten's St Nicolas, Finzi's Dies Natalis and of course Chris's own Credo. I am hoping to be involved in this grand send-off to a man who has given so much to the community. He has always been so supportive and generous (even bringing me back bottles of gin from his Highland treks) that I hope we can return that generosity by raising the necessary funds to put on this concert.

Chris Dowie is one of the best loved musicians, for his extraordinary musicianship, encouragement, kindness and loyalty. He has been the bedrock of musicmaking in our area since he arrived in Wimborne all those years ago. He is now a Vice President of Bournemouth Symphony Chorus. Having known him since that time, I hope that all his friends and admirers can make this a year to remember, culminating in a wonderful and well-deserved celebration of his music.

Chris Dowie is Wimborne Choral Society and has been for over 40 years. He is an Organist, Conductor and Composer and above all a special friend. Help us to celebrate this special event in Chris's retirement year and say thank you to him for sharing the joy of music.

I have been deeply fortunate to know Chris since I was 12, and to make music with him on countless occasions in the 26 years since then. He has given me and many others such support, encouragement, opportunity and friendship; I will be forever indebted to him.