MICHAEL Tumelty, critic extraordinaire, is conspicuous by his absence. Many regular concert-goers like myself have been remarking on it. I understand Michael has been rather ill, and courtesy of The Herald, I and I'm sure many others would like to wish him a speedy recovery.

While we're on the subject, it is surely appropriate to pay tribute to his tenacity and commitment to the whole business of enjoying and appreciating the concert life we are so lucky to be offered here in Glasgow and throughout Scotland. He has had some setbacks over the past few years, and has never allowed them to get in the way of his support for, and sometimes justifiable criticism, of all the music-making he has himself been an indispensable part of.

Michael, your many fans and followers salute you.

Robert Love,

37 Kelvin Court, Glasgow.