Watson Forbes

Scottish classical violist, classical music arranger, and Professor of Viola. Born 16 November 1909 in St Andrews, Scotland, UK - Died 25 June 1997 in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, England, UK. He studied the violin at the Royal Academy of Music. While studying, he was encouraged to take up the viola. The invitation to join the Stratton Quartet set the direction of his career and remained with them for the rest of its existence. He was Joint Leader of the London Symphony Orchestra (1935-1939), but, from 1940 onwards, he joined The Royal Air Force Orchestra. After the war, he continued with the Stratton Quartet, (but now, following the departure of George Stratton (2), renamed Aeolian String Quartet). In 1954, he became Professor of Viola and chamber music at the Royal Academy of Music. In 1964, he moved to Glasgow to take up the post of Head of Music for BBC Radio Scotland. Father of Sebastian Forbes and Rupert Oliver Forbes.