Mary Connelly

2017—Arts Builder

Mary Connelly, 1924-2014

“Her playing is an inspiration, her enthusiasm sensational, her giggle contagious.” Thus the Mount Allison yearbook described a 19-year-old Mary Connelly in 1943.

Mary studied music in Sackville from 1941 to 1945. She taught music in area schools from 1962 to 1968. And in 1989 she returned to this town, where she would stimulate musical and artistic endeavours for the next 25 years.

As an imaginative teacher, she helped her students discover music as a living form of expression. As an accompanist and mentor, she urged them to dig ever deeper for meaning and nuance. As a church organist and choral conductor, she helped countless individuals to feel connected with the community at large. As a singer, she delighted audiences at formal and impromptu concerts. As a hostess, she welcomed friends into her home for memorable evenings of music and Scottish country dancing.

In every way, she was a true “Arts Builder,” promoting musical engagement and appreciation among all whom she touched.