'William - Wibb, to his many friends - was one of the most remarkable teachers in the Academy’s modern era. Over his four decades as, indisputably, the global star of the Woodwind Department, no-one encapsulated the pedagogy of flute playing with more passion, commitment or distinction. He was a supreme flautist who brought his strong musical values to the forefront of his teaching and mentoring.
'Wibb celebrated his students with pride as if they were family, and they will be feeling the loss intensely. His legacy is the scores of remarkable flute players who populate the profession, including soloists and major orchestra principals at the highest level internationally. Personally, I will miss his humanity and fun, his profound interest in others and famously iconoclastic dress sense (where juxtaposed purples and oranges were de rigueur on account of being Wibb).
'Our
condolences go out to his wife, Michie, and his family.'