Scottish orchestra mourns its leader

Scottish Ballet has posted this sad notice:

It is with deep sadness that we have learned that Justine Watts, our colleague, friend and leader of the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, has passed away peacefully, surrounded by her immediate family.

As the longest serving leader of our orchestra (since 2001) Justine was an inspiration to all who worked with her. Her enthusiasm, fun and good humour were infectious. During her time with Scottish Ballet, Justine unselfishly continued to offer up valuable guidance to younger players recruited into the ranks, many of whom went on to secure positions in professional orchestras throughout the UK and beyond.

Justine always took great care to see who was dancing which role and was generous with her applause and praise when promotions were awarded on stage. She brought the dancers and the orchestra together effortlessly. Likewise, Justine’s attention to detail and quality ensured the SBO’s reputation was highly regarded, and this legacy is immeasurable.

Justine faced her illness with a positive outlook, incredible bravery and remarkable resilience over the five years since her diagnosis; whilst continuing to lead the orchestra on many successful Scottish Ballet tours – most recently leading the orchestra for A Streetcar Named Desire in Glasgow.

She will be greatly missed by all whose paths she crossed. Our thoughts are with her husband Ewen and their three sons at this very sad time.

Justine studied at the Royal Academy of Music and at Rice University, Texas. She freelanced with Houston Symphony Orchestra, Houston grand Opera and Houston Ballet, before returning to Britain, becoming co-leader for ten years of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, where her father was principal oboe. She joined Scottish Ballet as leader in 2001.