High note struck by barbershop Highwayman

GLEN Billson has been honoured by the Highwaymen Barbershop Men’s Chorus for his huge contribution to the development of this singing group over many years.

For someone who has lived such a richly varied life as Glen Billson (83), it is noteworthy that he considers this Certificate of Recognition to be dear to his heart.

In spite of his tremendous capacity for remembering melodies and lyrics, from classics to pop and from old time to modern, he was a late starter in applying this talent to singing as a member of a group.

‘Barbershop’, with its challenging and haunting harmonies, was the perfect forum for Glen’s abilities, associated, as it is, with great fellowship and the opportunity to have fun with others of like mind.

While singing ‘out’, when the Highwaymen perform for the public, Glen has shown that he is no stranger to performing in public, and of performing for the public, as was evident in his successful term of office as mayor of Pinetown.

Besides this he is an honorary life member of the Pinetown Cricket Club, has been chairman of the Pinetown Hockey Club and of the Royal Doulton Association, was ‘Cardinal’ of the Pastors’ Hockey Team and more.

His business career, which brought him from Gauteng to Pinetown more than 30 years ago, has been full of interest and variety. He has been involved with health and fitness, property development and management, business brokering, manufacturing, and even travel. Many of these are still part of his life though his instinctive entrepreneurial spirit keeps him ever ready for new challenges.

When asked what message he would convey to the youth of today, Glen responded with, “Don’t waste time on meaningless activities. Stay alert to opportunities and work hard to turn them into reality when they come your way. Think creatively and don’t wait for others to clear your path for you.”