In memory of Matt Haigh

It is with overwhelming sadness that we have to break the news of violin tutor Matt Haigh's sudden passing. Matt was a wonderful person, so kind and gentle, very patient and so enthusiastic in encouraging others to pursue their talents and aspirations.

Everything happened so quickly and all of us here at the shop, including staff, tutors and of course his scores of students and their parents, are in shock and just at a loss with Matt's unexpected deterioration in health.

It has been decided to set up a Go Fund Me page to collect donations towards, at the very least, a memorial service for Matt and hopefully, if possible, a funeral. There will be more information about this available as soon as possible, it seemed appropriate to inform those who knew Matt.

Matt wasn't just liked, he was loved by so many here at Booth's and in the music scene. He was a very, very talented musician and made many people happy by entertaining them either busking in the town in previous years or playing at several of the local live music sessions. Matt has been teaching here at Booth's Music for close to twenty years and was absolutely adored by his colleagues and pupils. Many students have achieved monumental success in graded exams and acquiring places at prestigious schools and colleges, including a number who have gone on to study at Chetham's School of Music and one who went to Harvard in the US. This is all down to Matt's guidance and enthusiastic approach to bringing out the best in each individual. He had also been a customer here for decades and was a dear personal friend to all of us in the team.

Matt will be sorely missed by all of us here at Booth's Music and many of those who loved and respected him from the wider musical community.

We are aware that many of Matt's friends are eagerly awaiting news of a service or funeral, a further update is promised as soon as we know more.