Book Of Remembrances

Barry Robinson - Cambridge 41 Club

Barry Robinson passed away on 5th July 2016.

Barry was born in Cambridge in 1943. His childhood ambition was to be an architect but, although he won a place to read architecture at Cambridge University, his real desire was to buy back and expand the family music business which had been established in Cambridge in 1856 but recently sold outside the family.

In 1974 Barry bought Millers Music Centre back into the family, and during the 38 years in which he was Managing Director it became a vibrant, successful and nationally respected business. His dedication and passion for business led him to grow the original shop into an enterprise which encompassed many branches across the local area, sold a variety of entertainment products such as records and TVs, and continued the family tradition of selling pianos. He was also able to buy the renowned Cambridge music shop, Ken Stevens, and incorporate it into Millers Music Centre.

Barry was a well known, active and popular member of the Cambridge community. He prided himself on his commitment to improving the city he loved for those who lived, worked and did business there, and he was a prominent commentator and advocate for Cambridge business matters. He was involved in the foundation of several business support organisations including the Cambridge Retail and Commercial Association.

In 2012 Barry sold Millers Music Centre but remained as a Director and advisor to the new owner up until his death following a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

During his life, both at work and outside, he was highly respected as a loyal and caring boss, colleague, friend and family member, and he was well known for being a fair man with great generosity. Never one to say no to anything, he truly lived life to the full. He was an inspirational man, enjoying every moment as much as he possibly could, and taking great happiness in all aspects of his life.

He is greatly missed by his wife, Julie, daughters Gemma and Katie, and four grandchildren, as well as his many friends and colleagues who had the privilege to spend time with him throughout his life. He always said he was lucky in life, but it is those who knew him who were the lucky ones…