When it comes to personal stories, Laurie Watt’s My Other Family: The London Philharmonic Orchestra should not go unnoticed.

As a book that chronicles his involvement with one of the world’s greatest orchestras, this book presents an intimate and heartfelt tribute to the musicians, conductors, and administrators who made the London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) his second family.

Across nearly five decades, Watt’s relationship with the Orchestra evolved from casual encounters to a deep emotional bond. This offers readers a rare perspective on its rich history and enduring legacy.

For Watt, the LPO was a community bound by passion, resilience, and a shared commitment to the art of music. Watt was introduced to the Orchestra in the 1970s by his friend Patrick Garvey, a French horn player, and he quickly found himself immersed in its world. What began as casual attendance at concerts and recording sessions soon became an active role. Watt, a lawyer, was called upon to assist during a pivotal legal dispute. With his ability to navigate the complexities of employment law, he helped secure a unique governance structure for the Orchestra, cementing his place as a trusted ally and advocate.

Watt’s emotional connection to the LPO shines through in his vivid recollections of its members. He describes this beautiful place as a family that, like all families, faced its share of challenges and triumphs. From backstage banter to moments of profound artistry, his memoir presents a picture of an institution that is as human as it is exceptional. One particularly poignant memory is of Nick Busch, the legendary horn player, whose sublime performance of the Andante from Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 left an indelible mark on Watt—that years later, at Busch’s funeral, the same recording was played in his honour.

Watt captures the LPO’s evolution over the decades. He reflects on the changes it has undergone while celebrating its core identity. He recalls the turbulent years of the late 1970s when financial and structural challenges threatened its stability. Moreover, Watt’s legal expertise and unwavering support were instrumental as they helped him to navigate these difficulties, ensuring the Orchestra’s survival and continued excellence. This reveals not only his dedication but also his deep respect for the resilience of the LPO’s members.

Watt also celebrates the LPO’s adaptability and innovation, particularly its international outreach. He played a pivotal role in organising tours to Australia and South Africa, showcasing the Orchestra’s ability to transcend borders and bring its music to global audiences. These tours were not without their challenges, but they underscored the LPO’s commitment to excellence and its ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Equally compelling are Watt’s reflections on the LPO’s legacy. From its founding by Sir Thomas Beecham to its current role as a cultural ambassador, Watt’s candid memoir dispels the myth that Beecham was the sole creator of the orchestra. In this context, this book offers a nuanced view of its early history and the collaborative efforts that shaped its foundation to date—and highlights the contributions of countless individuals who have kept the LPO at the forefront of classical music.

What makes Watt’s tribute so powerful is his ability to convey the emotional essence. Whether humorous or deeply moving, his journey reveals the human stories behind the curtain. From late-night vodka celebrations with Mstislav Rostropovich to the camaraderie of recording sessions at Kingsway Hall, these unique and musical tributes bring the Orchestra’s history to life.

In a nutshell, My Other Family, Laurie is as much about the people as it is about the music. Watt’s reflections on the LPO’s evolution celebrate its resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit, which redefines the LPO as a living, breathing testament to the power of music to unite, inspire, and transform. This memoir stands as a heartfelt ode to an extraordinary institution and its profound role in his life and the world of classical music.

For more information and insight, please visit: https://myotherfamily.co.uk/