Irene Pearce (Mrs. Roy D.)
L.Mus. (McGill) served as Organist and Director of Music here at Centenary
United Church, for 54 years, from 1937 to 1991. Her studies included a
three-year scholarship at McGill University, in Montreal, under Lord Atholstan,
receiving her Licentiate of Music there in 1949, and obtaining for the third
time the highest marks in Canada, and being awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s
Medal.
Well known for her works
in organ, piano and duo-piano, both in radio and on the concert platform,
Irene also made several appearances with symphony orchestras. As a respected
accompanist, she further supported such musicians as Paul Robeson, Francis
Yeend, Jean Dickenson, Noel Brunet and Alexander Brott.
In 1978, Irene was chosen
as one of the Ten Women Outstanding in the Arts in Canada. In 1986 she was
honoured as the Woman of the Year in the Arts, in Hamilton. She continues as
Organist Emeritus of Centenary United Church.
Upon her retirement, the
annual Irene Pearce Scholarship was established, to be administered by
McMaster University, for the encouragement of a student who has completed at
least one year of an Honours Music program, and who, in the judgement of the
Department of Music, has attained notable standing and demonstrated excellence
in keyboard performance.
The recipient each year is
invited to participate in a Sunday worship service in Centenary.
