Musical talent: Robert Luke

THE life of a rare musical talent has been remembered on what would have been his coming of age.

Robert Luke would have turned 21 last Friday, but he took his own life last year when he was just 19.

His parents have released an album of his music to raise funds for charities close to their son's heart and his former college has unveiled a memorial plaque outside the room where he so often practised drumming.

Brian and Sylvia Luke, who now live in Crook, but at the time of their son's death lived in High Shincliffe, hope that the album will answer a note their son left, asking them to do something with my music.' Robert had spent three years studying at New College Durham, where he achieved a grade eight, the highest possible, in drums and bass guitar.

The album title, Tuesday Morning, refers to the day tragedy struck during his second term studying music at Newcastle University - Tuesday, March 20, 2007.

Mark Deeks, course leader at Durham New College, said: "I remember Rob Luke as probably the most talented student in my time. This is our small gesture to show the high regard in which Rob was held by staff and students."

His father, Brian, said his son's musical ability was inspiring and saw him record 60 compositions, ranging from classical to heavy rock.

Robert's first album, Beach, also released posthumously, sold well and had 19 songs - one for each year of his life.

His father, also a drummer, contributed to the new album, along with Robert's friends. He said the profits would go to Spennymoor Youth Theatre Group and similar organisations.

Rob Luke's albums are available at HMV in Durham or Windows in Newcastle.

Alternatively, visit www.robluke.co.uk, email roblukemusic@hotmail.

com or telephone Mrs Luke on 07778-744-410.

12:14pm Thursday 15th May 2008

Print

Email this