A LOVE of music and fostering that love in other people, especially children is what drives Queen’s birthday honour recipient Max Croot from Bomaderry.
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Mr Croot has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community of Shoalhaven, particularly through the brass band movement.
“I’m a bit shocked,” he said, “and a bit humbled really.”
Mr Croot is a patron of the City of Shoalhaven Eisteddfod, and has been a committee member for several years.
He was the founder of the Shoalhaven City Concert Band and the Shoalhaven City Youth Concert Band in 1994, of which he was bandmaster for many years.
He was also bandmaster of Berry Silver Band in 2013 and Nowra Town Band for several years in the 1980s and has been and remains a volunteer music tutor in a number of local schools.
“I’ve been interested in [music] all my life,” Mr Croot said.
“A musical education through the study of instruments offers children benefits which are fulfilling.
“Music is the only subject which uses every part of the brain.
“I feel not enough is done through the education system to allow children a musical education.
“It develops mental and physical abilities, improves self-expression, co-ordination and co-operation with people. It’s something you have for your whole entire life.”
Mr Croot was recognised as a gold medal recipient by the Shoalhaven City Council Arts Board in 2012 for his outstanding achievement in service to music throughout the Shoalhaven.