Judith Grant

(1926-2022)

Judith Grant, who studied music at the Conservatory, has been one of its most generous and consistent benefactors over many years. Ifan Williams, the Conservatory’s Director during MCPA’s early years in its Chebucto Road home, was committed to restoring the building. It was she who stepped up with the first major donation for this purpose, allowing the renovation of Room 4, now the Judith Grant Room. In 2004, when progress had been made in restoring substantial parts of the interior of the building, Judith Grant was one of eight donors who were honoured for their financial support of this major project.

It was Judith, as well, who subsequently covered the cost of the elevator which assists patrons in getting to the second floor Lilian Piercey Concert Hall. And within the Hall, the concert grand piano was also her gift. Student awards have also received Judith’s attention, and she funds a substantial annual scholarship for a dance student enrolled in the Professional Program. And perhaps most significantly of all, she continues to make substantial donations when requested to cover unexpected costs for which provision has not been made in the budget, support that she offers without fanfare.

The Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts is not the only major musical organization in the region that has been a recipient of Judith’s largesse. For many years, for example, she has been one of Symphony Nova Scotia’s major supporters. The same is the case with the Scotia Festival of Music; on November 19th , 2021, Judith Grant sponsored a concert as part of the Chamber Players Series, featuring the 10 complete Ludwig van Beethoven Violin Sonatas performed by “ten of Halifax’s finest musicians.”

Judith Grant has also been active in volunteer organizations that support performing arts and performing arts education. She has been a member and supporter for many years of both the Halifax Ladies’ Musical Club and of Bravura Nova Scotia—formerly the Maritime Conservatory of Music Alumni Association—serving terms as President of both groups.

In recognition of Judith Grant’s contributions to the city’s musical life and her long-time support of both the Conservatory and Bravura Nova Scotia, Bravura named her an honorary life member in 2014. Judith died in 2022 at the age of 96.