In Memoriam

In Memoriam: Peter Longworth

Pianist and teach Peter Longworth has died at the early age of 54. Peter graced the WMCT stage five times, beginning with the Duke Piano Trio in the 102nd season, and most recently in 2016 during the 119th season, with James Sommerville, horn, and Scott St. John, violin.

John Terauds and Norman Lebrecht have written heartfelt tributes to his contributions to Toronto musical life.

Further appreciations by colleagues, students and friends at Ludwig van Toronto.

2018 06 26

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In Memoriam : John D. McNeil

John McNeil died on February 26, 2018.  He was an Honorary Advisor to both the Women’s Musical Club of Toronto and the Foundation, as well as a member of the Investment Committee, since its inception some 18 years ago.

John was the husband of Esther McNeil, founding chair of the Women’s Musical Club of Toronto Foundation, and former two-time President of the WMCT.  John advised Esther when she created the Foundation 18 years ago, and was a vital partner in ensuring its successful launch and continuing growth. As the former Chairman and CEO of Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, John was able to contribute both financial acumen and networking skills to create a distinguished roster of Investment Committee members. As a long-serving member of the Investment Committee, John guided the Foundation to invest its money wisely and for the long term, ensuring the health and continuing success of the WMCT.
John was also a keen music lover and attended all WMCT concerts after his retirement.

The WMCT and Foundation community join in sending Esther, and her family, our deepest condolences, and very best wishes.

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William Macrae – arts devotee

Noted Toronto ophthalmologist Dr. William (Bill) Grant Macrae has died in Collingwood. He and his wife Mandy were great friends and supporters of the WMCT and arts organizations in Toronto.   Mandy, a devoted volunteer, served as president of the WMCT for a three-year term beginning in 1998.

Read The Globe story 

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Obituary: Marina Geringas

Teacher of elite pianists played last concert for Music in the Afternoon in 1982.

Marina

Marina Geringas, much-loved teacher and performer died at her home in Toronto on June 20 at the age of 77.  Russian-born, she lived through the Second World War in the Soviet Union and immigrated to Canada in 1975. In addition to performing, she became a leading teacher at both the Royal Conservatory of Music and the University of Toronto. In 1982 she retired from performing and played her last concert on Dec. 9 in Christ Church Deer Park presented by the WMCT.

Read Arthur Kaptainis’ Globe and Mail obituary.

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In Memoriam – George Brough

In Memoriam George Brough – 1918 – 2015

Longtime WMCT member and fixture in the Canadian classical music community George Brough died in Toronto, September 15. He was born in Boston, Lincolnshire, England, February 25, 1918, and became pianist, organist, harpsichordist, and opera coach. Music was the heart of his life and he and his friend and companion of 43 years, Simone Desilets have been part of the WMCT community for many years.

See Toronto Star obituary:

See Musical Toronto In Memoriam:

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Music Lover James Stewart Dies

The WMCT was truly saddened to hear of the passing of Professor James Stewart, an avid lover of classical music and generous donor. We were indeed fortunate to have our fundraiser at his home, Integral House, last May. It was a very unusual and spectacular venue, and a wonderful concert in support of a significant event in the history of the club – the 10th presentation of the Career Development Award in 2015. Our sincere condolences to James Stewart’s family and friends.

~ Annette Sanger, WMCT president

Click here for his story in Musical Toronto website. 

Click here for Toronto Star obituary.

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