Obituary of Neil F. Crory
In February 1977, Neil was a quiet, resolute young man from rural Alberta attending university in Edmonton where one of his professors, the distinguished Canadian composer, Violet Archer, wrote, “Neil Crory promises to be a first rate professional musician.” And that’s exactly what Neil became for this entire country through his stellar career as a Senior Music Producer in CBC Radio Music during those days when the Corporation recorded and broadcast Canada’s classical musicians and singers.
Among Neil’s most treasured accomplishments are a score of CDs that garnered eight JUNO awards, an American Grammy nomination, and an East Coast Music Award. Then there were the 1997 CBC Schubertiade, and the famous New Year’s Eve Gala at Roy Thomson Hall welcoming the 21st century with twelve of Canada’s greatest opera singers. Other highlights include several Glenn Gould celebrations honouring, among others, Yo-Yo Ma, Oscar Peterson, André Previn and Pierre Boulez; gala concerts from Rideau Hall; national broadcasts of Tafelmusik, Toronto Symphony, Canadian Opera Company, and Opera Atelier. His proudest achievement was the inspiring Maureen Forrester Memorial Tribute (2010) at Stratford Summer Music. In addition, Neil made innumerable contributions to the pages of Opera Canada and other publications.
In the tender company of his loving partner, Bruce Galbraith, and his cherished sister, Maxine Delaney, Neil left this sphere listening to the songs he loved most, Richard Strauss’ Four Last Songs.
At a future date, yet to be identified, Neil’s friends, colleagues and admirers are invited to a musical gathering fittingly to recognize his life and his accomplishments.
As he wished, an endowment fund has been created for the Stratford Summer Music Vocal Academy to support two of Neil’s passions, the training and the presentation of young Canadian classical singers and the popularization of the Lieder of Richard Strauss. Donations in his honour would be appreciated to Neil Crory Fund, administered by the Ontario Arts Foundation for the music festival. Through the Donations link on his homepage, please click the "Stratford Summer Music - Neil Crory Fund". A new browser window will open, please ensure you select "Stratford Summer Music - Neil Crory Fund" under the "Fund" drop-down menu. Other enquiries: Stratford Summer Music (1-866-288-4313, ext. 1).
Memories and photos can also be shared here on his tribute page.
Uniquely entrusted to eco Cremation & Burial Services Inc.
Life Celebrations. Done Differently.
