Passing on a passion for music for years to come

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Claire Watson Fisher © Photo submitted

Claire Watson Fisher grew up in a music-loving family. Her father was instrumental in the founding of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra in 1934. Her mother never missed a Saturday broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera from New York City. “Claire and I were often taken to concerts where our love of music began,” recalls Claire’s sister, Louise Watson Slemin.

The love of music followed Claire and her husband to Ottawa, where she had the opportunity to attend the NAC and enjoy concerts and other programs, says Louise. 

A lifetime of passion for the music inspired to Claire to give back to the art form that brought her so much joy. Motivated by Pinchas Zukerman’s commitment to training young musicians, Claire left a bequest for the development of outstanding musical talent. Her generous gift will provide funding for 10 exceptional musicians to participate in the NAC’s Summer Music Institute (SMI).

Each year the SMI brings dozens of talented young artists from around the world to the NAC and gives them the opportunity to work with a world-renowned faculty, perform with their peers, and take their skill and passion for music to the next level.

“Claire’s Memorial Celebration included a string quartet of talented young musicians,” Louise shares. “It would be her wish that such lovely music will be made in the future by the recipients of the awards made possible by her bequest.”


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