John Izzard wrote:
Attended the celebration of Ian's life at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park today. Unlike many here, I'd never ever spoken to Ian...not even the briefest of post gig exchanges. The reason I went was because Ian's music, whether in collaboration with Bill or as part of Fiat Lux, has always been important to me. I didn't know the guy but I knew his music. Obviously I feel a different kind of sadness to the dreadful sense of loss that the (extended) Nelson family are experiencing, but a loss nonetheless. I won't go into detail on the event, save to say that it was a fitting tribute to someone who touched many lives. More than he knew.
John, I am not usually any good at these functions at all, usually feel very awkward and not quite sure where to put myself et al but felt compelled to attend to celebrate the very significant contribution made by Ian to music generally.
It was a fitting statement of Ian's significance in the global scale of things and I can't really thank all involved for making appropriate acknowledgement of such.
Ian's legacy will long be remembered as was highligted superbly by his sons and immediate family and many many more.
I thank you Bill and family for allowing me to share these very precious moments and reminding me what real human beings are/should be like.
Ian would be very proud.
Sid Lewis