A PIECE of choral music commissioned in memory of a scientist from the University of Nottingham was given its first airing yesterday.
The music, in memory of Dr David Ray, was performed by St Peter's Church Choir at the University of Nottingham Medical School.
Dr Ray, associate professor of neurotoxicology, died on Remembrance Day 2010 after a long fight against lung cancer. He was Special Professor at the Medical School.
Dr Ray was also a member of the choir of St Peter's Church in the city centre which collaborated with the medical school and his widow, Reverend Joanna Ray, to commission a piece of music by British composer Howard Skempton.
Reverend Ray said: "I feel deeply moved and extremely proud that David should be honoured in such a wonderful way.
"He had a great love for choral church music and for listening to Proms concerts.
"It was a great comfort and inspiration to him during the traumatic last days of his lung cancer.
"Music strengthened his courage and resolve, to keep cheerful and positive right until the end."
Invited guests, friends and family of Dr Ray attended the first performance of the piece yesterday.