My father, Michael Gwinnell, who has died of leukaemia aged 78, was passionately committed to supporting the arts, especially classical music, which was a great love throughout his life.
As an investment expert with the asset management firm Schroders from 1967 onwards, Michael earned money that allowed him to become a modest philanthropist in the arts world. He also gave his time, advice and expertise to many musical charities, notably the London Suzuki Group, the Young Classical Artists Trust and the Viola Commissioning Circle. Later he worked for Atlantic Philanthropies, a private charitable giving foundation, as their head of investment.
Born in Islington, north London, to Mary (nee Good) and David, Michael was the eldest of four children and showed great academic potential from childhood. He spent several years living in Montreal as a boy while his civil servant father was posted there, and is still remembered fondly by the class of 1959 at Selwyn House school for his personal drive and sense of humour. Those qualities stood him in good stead throughout his life.
Returning to England ahead of the rest of his family to take up a place at Watford grammar school in Hertfordshire, Michael won an open scholarship to study mathematics at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he also coxed, rowed and played the bassoon. He made lifelong friends during his time at Cambridge and was a loyal alumnus to his college, being elected a guild fellow in 2005.
On graduating Michael worked in investment at Schroders and met his future wife, the flautist Barbara White, while playing in a semi-professional orchestra in 1969. They married in 1970, and after a year together in New York they settled in Stoke-by-Nayland, Suffolk. A first daughter, Emily, was born in 1974, and I arrived in 1977.
In 1976 the family moved to a Georgian townhouse in Islington. Michael’s interest in architecture and historic buildings, sparked by living in that house, later led him to become a life patron of the Landmark Trust.
The move from Schroders to his position with Atlantic Philanthropies in 1987 allowed Michael to spend more time supporting the arts, in particular music. His generosity positively influenced many lives, and all who met him were impressed by his charm, razor-sharp intellect and kindness.
After several years of ill health Michael faced his terminal diagnosis, in March this year, with courage, humility and acceptance, refusing chemotherapy and choosing instead to die in the home that he had loved for so many years.
He is survived by Barbara, his children, Emily and me, four grandchildren and his brother John.
