Late Police Band director remembered for key notes in music history

The retired music director of the renowned Band of the Barbados Police Service, Dr Christopher Atherley, was remembered on Thursday as a pivotal figure in the island’s musical and policing history at a service of thanksgiving following his death at age 77.

The service at St Mary’s Anglican Church drew members of the clergy, Barbados Police Service officers, the Atherley family and numerous friends, all gathered to honour the distinguished musician and Senior Superintendent of Police.

Andrew Lynch, the police band’s current director of music, highlighted Dr Atherley’s significant impact. “His professional mantra was ‘Business is business,’ a testament to his commitment to excellence,” Lynch told the congregation.

Dr Atherley’s career began on December 11 1963 when he joined the then Royal Barbados Police Force as an apprentice. Starting with the tuba before mastering the clarinet, he went on to earn a Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music (LRCM) in London in clarinet performance and a Master of Music degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Lynch quoted another late Director of Music, Senior Superintendent Gordon Lovell, who described Dr Atherley as a “dependable instrumentalist and hard worker” with “great knowledge and experience”.

Beyond his own performances, Dr Atherley founded the Band and Drums of the Barbados Regiment and played a crucial role in developing various cadet bands. His influence extended to the Barbados Defence Force Band and numerous choral groups across the island.

Christina, Dr Atherley’s daughter, shared personal reflections: “He encouraged me to be discerning, self-sufficient, and pursue excellence.” She reflected on the lessons her father taught her, particularly his advice to “stay wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove”, and how his teachings shaped her life. She also acknowledged the profound impact of her father’s loss, both personally and for those who knew him.

Reminiscing about her father’s dedication to music and his role as a father, highlighting the bond they shared and the values he instilled in her.

Dr Atherley’s sister, Muriel Clement, spoke of their challenging childhood following their mother’s death. “He worked hard for everything he accomplished,” Muriel said, emphasising his resilience and dedication. She noted that his early experiences shaped his character and work ethic, with his love for music beginning in the Salvation Army Youth Band.

Clement added: “He made lemonade out of lemons, and every time you heard him perform, you could feel the passion and love he put into it.”