Hold Fast Entertainment MD Donald MacLeod has been recognised for his services to Music and Charity with an MBE.
For the past 23 years, Donald, the man behind Glasgow clubs The Cathouse and The Garage, has been an integral part and driving force of Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy in Scotland – the largest independent music therapy charity in the UK, dedicated to enriching the lives of people affected by life limiting illness, isolation or disability.
Said Donald, “I would like to thank everyone involved in the charity: the beneficiaries, the therapists, fellow board and committee members, fundraisers and all those who nominated me. I regard this award as a deserved recognition of their hard work, fortitude and endeavour, and of course support, which has been as vital as it has been valued.
“I would also like to thank my wonderful wife Pauline and our fantastic family for all their encouragement and support over the years, which I could not have done without. News of this award has also been music to the ears of my mother Margaret, who tragically lost her son Calum, my younger brother, at the beginning of the pandemic, but who is now beaming from ear to ear.
“These are dark times for us all, but this fantastic news has raised our spirits and brightened everyone up.”
A former co-chair of the Board of Management, Donald continues to play a key role as Chairman of the charity’s Scottish Fundraising & Events Committee. Responsible for delivering the Scottish Music Awards (SMAs), which since the beginning 22 years ago, has celebrated the works and achievements of many of Scotland’s talented array of musicians, artists and bands. Names such the Simple Minds, Emili Sandi, Biffy Clyro, Amy Macdonald, Dougie Maclean, Paulo Nutini, raising an incredible amount in the process to support and maintain vital music therapy services in Scotland.
Donald has helped to oversee a significant growth in Nordoff Robbins music therapy provision and has been pivotal in attracting funding for their work through fundraising events and corporate partnerships. He champions the work of the charity through his significant network of contacts in the music industry, business world and on the political platform.