The Jean McKenzie Volunteer Award
Debbie McGuire received the award on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Debbie is band librarian for Sackville Concert Band, Halifax Concert Band and two other community bands.
Presenting the award are: Jim Forde, director of Sackville Concert Band and Becky Campbell, President of the Halifax Concert Band Society.
Congratulations!
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!
2025 NSBA Board of Directors
President – Dina Burtt
1st Vice President – John MacLeod
2nd Vice President – Holly Leader
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 Mark, Sarah MacDonald, Melissa Ashley, Helen Bannerman, Jacob Caines, Allison Penwell, Alison Meadows Peters, and Lyndsey Mitchell
Managing Director: TBA
NSBA Newsletter
For all new items, please email Holly Leader nsba.newsletter@gmail.com