Island Life

Derek Lawrence trained at the Royal College of Music and Greenwich University before teaching in the London Borough of Redbridge.

He became a head teacher whilst continuing work in the Redbridge Music School where he taught composition and conducted senior orchestras.

He wrote for the bi-annual Redbridge Concerts at the Royal Albert Hall where he also conducted.

His compositional highlights include: A commission for the Hampshire Police Male Voice Choir, several pieces for Jersey Premier Brass. A youth choral work for the opening of a London Music College in 2006, and a Jersey Rhapsody performed in January at the Jersey Opera House.

Since retiring to Jersey, Derek Lawrence has become a member of the Music in Action committee and is their concert manager.

My Jersey, My Home by Derek Lawrence

My Jersey, my home, my Island so proud
Where duty and union is ever avowed
No matter where in the world I may roam
I’ll always return to Jersey my home

With Red Cross and Shield, my banner held high
My honour, my pledge will always apply
Allegiance is called, commitment for all
Working together, our people stand tall

I know that whenever her shores I depart
Pride for my Island I’ll keep in my heart
A land of abundance that always accords
A lifetime of peace, the best of rewards

My Jersey, my home, my Island so proud
Where duty and union is ever avowed
No matter where in the world I may roam
I’ll always return to Jersey my home