Nova Scotia Band Association

In Memoriam, January 2025

Williams, James “Jim” A. – On Friday, January 10, 2025, Jim passed away at home unexpectedly at the age of 79.

Although advanced in years, his quick wit, entertaining stories showcased a lighthearted youthful spirit. A love of classical music, beginning at an early age, was the catalyst that took him on a lifelong journey of adventure resulting in rewarding work, learning, and sharing. After a number of years abroad he returned to beautiful Nova Scotia, making Dartmouth his home. The bulk of his career teaching music was in Halifax and surrounding area. He smiled often when reminiscing of Scotia Brass, Chebucto Orchestra, and the active community of musicians in the area. Jim was a Life Member of the Nova Scotia Band Association.

Jim’s retirement years were spent quietly tending his home and gardens. Flowering plants of various kinds found a safe haven under his care. His quiet appreciation for great friends, local and abroad, was never taken for granted. He held them all in high esteem.

Jim leaves a legacy whose reach is far greater than he realized. Those who knew him best fondly recall their times together and will miss him terribly. He remains truly alive in the hearts and minds of many. Although family are saddened by his unexpected exit, the multitude of happy memories will never be lost. It was a privilege to have been a part of his journey.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, James Archibald Williams, Sarah (Etheridge) Williams; brother, Gerald Reginald Williams. He is survived by his sister, Linda Williams, Halifax; nephews, Brad Dewar, Hammonds Plains; Stefan Dewar, Stony Plain, Alberta; nieces, Alison Dewar and Kathy Heath, both of Edmonton, Alberta.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private committal in the family lot at Glen Bard Cemetery, James River at a later date.

Charitable donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of choice. “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us” – H. Keller

NSBA MASTER TEACHERS 2024

Leslie Ann Andrews & Steve Hartlen

Check out below how they can help your program!

Your ensemble will have a fantastic experience at Atlantic Canada’s premier music festival!

We can’t wait to welcome you and your ensemble to the beautiful Mount Saint Vincent University campus in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
April 30 – May 2, 2025

An incredible learning opportunity

Atlantic Festivals of Music

2024 NSBA Board of Directors
President – Dina Burtt
1^st Vice President – Dr. Mark Hopkins (acting)
2^nd Vice President – Alison Meadows Peters
Treasurer – Jackie Crowell
Secretary – Dave Burtt
Past President – Steve Hartlen

NSYWE Rep – Hope Gendron
NSJWE Rep – Holly Hartlen
NSHJ Rep – Nick Fisher

Community Band Rep – David Prince & Ken Henderson

Members at Large: Serena Godmaire, Amanda Taylor, Holly Leader, Sarah MacDonald, Christine Blanchard, Allison Penwell, Lyndsay Mitchell, Jacob Cains and Helen Bannerman

Managing Director: Hope Gendron