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Tributes paid to Sunderland's Mr Music who has died
Tributes have been paid to music maker Rupert Hanson after he lost his battle against cancer today.
The 73-year-old, who died at home early this morning, rose from humble beginnings in Sunderland's East End to travel the world and perform for royalty.
He founded Sunderland Symphony Orchestra, among many other musical projects and has left a lasting legacy to the city.
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Rupert was born in Cumberland Terrace – in his words "the back streets of Sunderland".
A teacher at James William Street school spotted his potential in music.
Rupert paid for singing lessons by babysitting and swam between Sunderland's two piers, as he was told it would improve his voice.
His first job was as a telegram boy for the Post Office, aged 14.
But he kept his love of music alive, joining Sunderland Choral Society and taking a second job as a prop boy at the Sunderland Empire.
There he met legendary artists Nat King Cole and Laurel and Hardy, heard his first orchestra and saw his first composer.
Rupert was called up for National Service with the Royal Air Force, but music was never far away.
He found himself singing and playing French horn and was invited to join the Golden 25, who performed for the Royal Family and remembers singing for the Queen.
Rupert's faith was strong throughout his life, and he became a Salvation Army officer, remembering the help they had given to his family when they were growing up in poverty.
He met his wife Valerie and the pair travelled the world with the Salvation Army.
The family moved back to Sunderland 20 years ago when his mother became ill and died.
Lifelong friend George Craig grew up with Rupert, who was also a patron of the Lazarus Centre, set up by George to provide help to addicts.
George said: "Rupert Hanson was a champion for the underdog. He was dedicated and committed to helping people who are struggling through life."
Chris Mullin, MP for Sunderland South, said: "Rupert Hanson is one of my heroes. A man of enormous energy and infectious optimism who has done more to revive music in this city than anyone I know."
Rupert leaves behind wife Valerie, children, Miles, 38, Elizabeth, 37, and Mark, 33, and grandchildren, Jay, 11, Naomie, three, Jessica, two, and Phoebe, nine months old.
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Weather for Sunderland
Friday 10 February 2012
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Temperature: -3 C to 2 C
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