Honens Competition Artistic Director Passes Away

The Board and Staff of Honens International Piano Competition sadly announce the passing of former Artistic Director, Andrew Raeburn, at age 77. Raeburn was administrative and artistic leader of the Honens Competition in Calgary from 1993 until his retirement in 2004.

"Andrew was an extraordinary mentor for young musicians, arts administrators and all music-lovers," said Raeburn's successor, Stephen McHolm. "His enthusiasm for music-making is an inspiration to us all."

Born in London, Raeburn studied violin, piano and organ from an early age. He was awarded a
Master's degree in History from King's College, Cambridge, where he sang in the Chapel Choir, and was conductor of two chamber choirs. His varied professional life in the arts spanned more than five decades and included management and artistic administration with orchestras, close associations with distinguished conductors, the production of nearly 100 classical recordings as music director of two record companies, as well as the artistic direction of two international piano competitions. He was also a consultant to orchestras, dance companies, festivals, music competitions, other non-profit organizations and government funding agencies, and was an occasional performer, competition juror, writer, lecturer and broadcaster.

Raeburn received several honours and awards, including an Honorary Diploma in Musical Performance from Mount Royal College, the Rozsa Special Achievement Award for exceptional accomplishment in arts management, an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Calgary and a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the vitality of the international classical music community from the World Federation of International Music Competitions.

Funeral services will take place at St Stephen's Anglican Church (1121 14 Avenue SW, Calgary) on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. At Andrew Raeburn's request, please email condolences to leydens@arbormemorial.com in lieu of flowers.

Need more Toronto Theatre News in your life?
Sign up for all the news on the Spring season, discounts & more...