MARGARET METCALFE 1979 – 2022
Thank You from your KWCO Family!

We honour Margaret Metcalfe in gratitude for her contributions to the K-W Community Orchestra. The KW music community knows Margaret from her many years as member of the viola section in the KWS, or the Woodstock Strings, the Stratford Symphony, the KW Chamber Orchestra, solo and chamber music recitals, as a coach and teacher. Her crowning achievement was Viola Camp.  From 1994 - 2007 she held an annual two-week camp for viola students, which was more like a summer Viola Festival as she gathered professional violists to teach and give recitals for the community.  Margaret was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian Viola Society in 2010.  Although Margaret moved to Winnipeg last year she leaves behind a considerable legacy to the KWCO.

Margaret has been a steadfast friend and valuable supporter of the KWCO since the very beginning.  She was Concertmaster of the Summer Repertory Orchestra that Erna Van Daele formed in 1979 and when summer ended Margaret was one of many urging Erna to keep the project alive, and the KWCO was born in 1980.      

From the outset Margaret took the Community Orchestra under her wing.  She was soon recognized as a "KWCO booster 'par excellence'" (Liz Leedham 1982) and a few years on had become "a constant and very significant force behind the orchestra" (Bruce Torrie 1988).

Margaret's first solo performance with the KWCO in 1981 set a standard that put the orchestra on track for the high professional calibre of our soloists.   The Record's review described Margaret's "exceptionally fine solo performance...expertly displayed...warmth and flexibility.  This demanding Telemann work proved to be both a technical and artistic landmark, quite unlike anything the orchestra has attempted to date."  A year later our soloist was Victor Danchenko who had studied with David Oistrakh, (and Margaret helped us out by playing in the back of the viola section for the concert).    At the 10th Anniversary concert in 1990 Margaret played the Handel/Casadesus Viola concerto.  She performed in Chamber Music fundraising concerts - notably Mozart's Kegelstadt trio, and the Bruch songs for mezzo-soprano, clarinet and viola "a really beautiful performance of these achingly lovely works" (Jan Narveson).

In 1985 Margaret became a Board member.  She sat on the program committee and conductor search committees, found soloists (at least 30 from the KWS) and coaches  - "Her opinions [and knowledge of difficulty] are much valued when it comes to choice of music  and she is our contact person with the KWSO for coaches and soloists."(Bruce Torrie 1988).  She has organized workshops (in 1986 the workshop at Paradise Lake had the first violas-only sectional), and sectionals, and coached the violas for many years. She also helped with mundane tasks such as working the box office and making coffee. She wrote articles for the Newsletter guiding us on how to (or not to) mark up our music, and supplied the viola section with soft pencils with erasers attached.  In 2015 Margaret was hired to lead the viola section.  Having a leader who could be relied on to play all the notes was a great relief to some members of the section.  But Margaret’s presence as a professional not only anchored the heart of the orchestra, but she also reminded us what it means to play in an orchestra, even a community orchestra. She leaves us with the message that although “one of music making's main goals, is to have fun, playing in an orchestra is a co-dependant activity. All of the people involved work together to create one cohesive presentation. If people are missing, or unfocused, the ultimate effect will be compromised. Of course, we are there to enjoy ourselves. But, the paradox is that paying serious attention during rehearsal is what will actually lead to a greater sense of satisfied enjoyment. Orchestral playing is a much more disciplined type of music-making than most of the other ways we play music. The degree of personal discipline required to contribute to a satisfying orchestral experience can take quite a while to understand."

Margaret was elected as a Lifetime Director of the KWCO in 2000.

Thank you, Margaret, for your friendship and immeasurable contribution to the success and well-being of the KWCO, and we wish you all the best in your new life in Winnipeg.

 PS  Did we mention that she can play the piano with her hands behind her back?

Tributes to Margaret from her friends and colleagues

We could stuff at least three overflowing viola cases with memories and appreciations of Margaret, and still not capture the scope of her musical achievements combined with her generous spirit and the quirky human details that you and I cherish about her.

Margaret Metcalfe and I first worked together during the early years of our respective careers -- she as KW Symphony violist and private teacher of violin and viola, and I as conductor of the newly founded KW Community Orchestra. When she took up the training of amateur musicians as a strings coach, we were the first to benefit from her musical skills her passion for helping people at any level. Since then she has been in demand by numerous other ensembles and individuals looking for a highly respected sectional coach or private teacher. I can say with confidence that Margaret has worked with pretty well every violist in Waterloo Region.

There is an immensely creative side to Margaret that is not limited to her musical performance; rather it expresses itself in activities well beyond any normal definition of a coach's job, including imaginative problem solving on a grand scale. One of the most impressive of such achievements was the Viola Camp project! -- see details in the tributes from some of the fortunate attendees.

Another aspect of Margaret's creativity that has struck me especially is her inimitable way with words. She expresses herself in a rich yet succinct way, with a unique humour that many of us have appreciated. She can be direct while remaining respectful, and she speaks out hard truths with style and wit. All of these enviable qualities have made discussions flow smoothly. As for simply chatting about life, the universe, and everything--what a conversationalist!

Margaret's success and popularity is not only the result of her many talents and her dynamic work ethic, but also because of her evident love for most humans of every age and stripe, which translates into a passion for helping people at any level. It makes me happy that we are here today to pay tribute to Margaret with the Orchestra to which she has given so much of herself. I think that, once you meet her, you will never forget her, as seen in the virtual cast of thousands who are her devoted friends and colleagues. Dear Margaret, I will miss your music, your well considered opinions, your inventive ideas, your entertaining conversations. You have been open and generous with all of us, you have made us laugh--sometimes hysterically--and you have left a flotilla of well trained violists behind you. We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for this community! Our thoughts go with you as we wish you a wonderful next stage of life in Winnipeg. 

. . . Erna Van Daele, founding music director of the KW Community Orchestra

As a member of the viola section since 1980 I have appreciated Margaret’s coaching sessions, her patience, kindness about playing ability, her humour, generosity, her excellent tips for improving playing technique or faking difficult passages, viola parties and “Happy Playtime”.   Friendship involved assisting at her Viola Camp for 14 years and enjoying the viola camaraderie, workshops, recitals and masterclasses by prominent violists, road trips to SUNY Fredonia for master classes with Charles Joseph, “Happy Playtime” including local violists. Over the years there were many walks, exploring new places, long conversations, birthday lunches, a trip to Toronto to buy my viola case, and always the support of a good friend. Although you are much missed Margaret, our friendship endures.

. . . Liz Graham

What can I say about Margaret? I miss her and I'll be happy to see her when she visits. I met Margaret about 45 years ago, and if I count the Ottawa Youth Orchestra that we both played in, in 1963, then it's been a long time. I found Margaret to be helpful, kind and generous toward me in many ways. She had many good tips regarding playing the Viola, good advice about technique, as well as challenges such as “the one minute bow”. She was a tireless promoter of the viola with the viola camps which she organized.

. . . Philippe Elsworthy

I first met Margaret when she joined the KW Community Orchestra as the viola section leader. Through this position she gave us both technical advice and encouragement. In time she brought the violas from a hitherto somewhat ragtag bunch of amateurs into an organized functioning group of players.

However, Margaret gave us much more: inviting us into her home for special rehearsals and “happy playtime”, when we would try out music not on the orchestral program, “just for fun”. Together with other members of the orchestra, I was lucky enough to play chamber music with Margaret many times over the years, for which I am very grateful. 

. . . Hugh Pritchard

I met Margaret when I first moved to Waterloo in 2001.  She welcomed me to her Viola summer camp with the students.  She was always willing to mentor and support me as a new violist!  When I had difficult music which had challenging fingering and timing passages in my parts, she offered gratis lessons at her home. Often this also included chocolate covered almonds and a cup of tea or coffee!

I am forever grateful to have been included in chamber music gatherings which broadened my repertoire and appreciation for chamber music.

. . . Carmen Miron

These are two of my favourite sayings from Margaret: “You don’t have to play all the notes!” and “Questions are always welcome, excuses are not”.  It was an absolute privilege to learn from Margaret – she was so generous and eager to share her deep knowledge of orchestral playing and pass on all the skill and artistry of a professional musician. So much of music performance is not written down on the page, but passed on from one musician to another. I’ll never forget Margaret showing us how the 3 beats in a Viennese waltz aren’t even, but are played “short-long-medium”. Suddenly the music came alive.

 And that is what mattered most of all to Margaret – skipping a note here or there, simplifying a tricky passage, none of that mattered – music isn’t whether all the notes are played or only some of them. However, Margaret did expect commitment - no excuses. Ask all the questions you want, she’ll answer them all, work out any technical tangles, but then – make sure that the notes you do play, are played the very best you can.

. . . Benedicta Hughes

I appreciated the following things about Margaret:
- her support of my music composition aspiration
- her bowing expertise
- she once lent me her 18th century viola to play in a concert. Believe me the conductor noticed when I played it & so did the trumpet player sitting behind me
- finally, her musical philosophy included reassuring players who were concerned about playing tricky passages that while they should do the best they could, they should not be worried because someone else would certainly be playing the passage anyway. LOL

BTW it goes without saying that she is an amazingly talented musician & teacher. 

. . . Ken Kosow

Margaret provided wonderful leadership to the  KWCO, both musically and in terms of raising us to a more professional atmosphere.  We miss Margaret’s long term support of KWCO behind the scenes and then in the Principal Viola chair. I appreciated her mentoring me, making available to me as concertmaster her long experience with KWS in terms of bowing and style.

. . . Rick Bond, former concertmaster, KWCO

When I learned that Margaret was coming back to KW to play in our recent concert, I was overjoyed, to say the least. You see, although I never had the chance to play in the orchestra with her, she was always with me, whenever and wherever I picked up my instrument.

Margaret was my first teacher when at the age of 19, I inherited my grandfather’s violin. It was she who first suggested I join the KWCO after only two years of playing. Through our lessons and well beyond, she became much more than a teacher and a mentor. She became a dear, dear friend. She was one of a very few people who was there for me during a very difficult time in my life, and for that I shall be eternally grateful.

Sadly we've lost touch over these many years as life has taken its usual twists and turns, but I've never stopped thinking of you, Margaret. You often visit me when I'm alone practicing; Full of quirky remarks and brilliant advice, you're never far away from my practice sessions.

So dearest Margaret, I'm hopeful that this visit could be the catalyst for rekindling our friendship. Although you are now living far, far away from here, free Canada wide calling is a wonderful thing... and I’m not afraid to use it! I only hope you'll be just as happy to answer the call when I do.

. . . Desirée Mau

In 1973, I moved to Canada and one of the first people I met was Margaret. I ended up renting a room next to hers in a large apartment next to McGill U. When she moved to Edmonton, I visited her there where she (and Hank) cooked me a lovely dinner in a kitchen the size of a small closet.  When I joined the KWS in 1974, she moved back to the area and joined the symphony as well. We remained ‘walking’ friends and ‘birthday celebration’ friends for the next 45 years.

One of my favorite stories about Margaret is that one time, I received a viola from someone who was giving it up so I took some lessons from Tom Vermouth [Wermuth], of the KWS at the time, but I did not continue with it. Too frustrating! So I gave it to Margaret. The next thing I knew, Margaret called to ask if I wanted a piano. Someone was giving it up and she had it delivered to me, all free of charge. Margaret never forgot a favor or gift. I still have the piano. I think she still has the viola!

Sitting at the end of the first row of woodwinds in the symphony, I was practically an honorary member of the viola section who were right next to us on the left. Oboe players often have close friends in the viola section for that reason. Those are the people you chat with while the conductor is busy with another section of the orchestra. So, we chatted a lot and I had a good dose of Margaret’s funny manner of speech, full of witticisms and, at times, puzzling but humorous metaphors.  Best Wishes, Margaret!

. . . Faith Levene

 I have had the delight and the privilege to play chamber music with Margaret.  Always a great experience, calling upon her depth and breadth of experience. I cherish our happy play times.

. . . Robyn Gallimore, cello

Longtime members of the Kitchener Waterloo Community Orchestra are fully aware of the sterling contributions Margaret has made to the organization, from its earliest days. As a professional musician and valued violist with the KWS, Margaret somehow found time over the years to offer ongoing support for our amateur orchestra. She has contributed as a board member, a leader of sectionals, an invaluable adviser, a friend—and more recently, as leader of the orchestra's viola section. As a teacher, she provided inspiration to young instrumentalists. Over the years, she encouraged them by holding what were called 'Happy Play Times' which provided fun, social learning experiences to small groups of kids. Margaret has always been totally altruistic in the true sense of the word. On a personal note, my daughter was invited to attend many of those small group sessions at First United. She loved the opportunity to read music with other young musicians, and attributes her excellent sight-reading skills to those frequent, much-enjoyed get-togethers. For years now, she has regularly offered Happy Play Times to her own violin and piano students--which is why Margaret’s name is fondly mentioned so often in our family.  Yay Margaret!

. . . Nancy Norman

 Margaret!   Not long ago, we heard that you'd be back in town soon, and then there you were:  at a KWCMS concert featuring violist Jody Davenport.  Haha, of course you were there!   It was great to see you again, and for a moment it felt like the old days when we all knew that you – the most community-minded musician around – would come out in support of musicians, whether they were fellow professionals, amateur musicians in town, or young players attending your annual Viola Camp.  We're definitely not alone in missing your enthusiastic presence (not to mention your sense of humour and wonderful chuckle 🙂), so please don't make this your last visit.

. . . Jean & Jan Narveson

 I can’t remember the details of my first encounter with Margaret but it likely had to do with Dim Sum at King Tin restaurant in Waterloo on some Sundays. It seemed to be a fairly regular get together with a group of people who had interests in eating, music and Tai Chi as I recall. Margaret was a member of the KWS at that time, was active in Tai Chi groups and was an honorary member, consultant, etc for the KWCO and made the necessary arrangements for the sectionals. From time to time she would patiently give me some tips on fingering, bowing, etc and was the epitome of patience.

As time went on, Margaret and I had occasion to spend time going for walks which she did regularly and at great speed. Many others have spent walking time with Margaret as well. During our walks I would hear of her various life journeys in the music world and was amazed at the breadth of her travels and affiliations with various orchestras across Canada. She has travelled by various means, including hitchhiking from Coast to Coast in Canada.

Also in her journeys she collected a variety of interesting characters many of whom she keeps in touch with. She is a loyal, interesting and thoughtful friend. When she sets her mind to doing something there’s no stopping her.

. . . Ellie Rimmer

After a reprieve of almost 20 years from viola playing, the KWCO welcomed me with open arms.  And into such a privileged position as into the tutelage of Margaret Metcalfe!  I was fortunate enough to call Margaret a mentor, neighbour, and friend.

Margaret was the most generous of teachers.  If I mentioned that I struggled transposing into the treble clef, I was gifted with a “Queen of Sheba” passage to address this.  If I mentioned that I was experiencing tendinitis, I was gifted with an article from William Primrose on left hand pressure technique.

Margaret’s leadership within the viola section and the orchestra also provided life long lessons. Her elegant and timely bowing markings are still unparalleled.  And yes, I will try to arrive to practice for call, not the downbeat!

The lesson for which I am most grateful is the appreciation of playing music in a community - either in the orchestra for which I will forever giggle when the score reads “Morendo", or in smaller groups.  Being able to play an instrument is a gift, but to play an instrument within the company of like minded individuals is a blessing. Long live happy viola playtime!  Much love and respect,

. . . Janice Boich

I think if it hadn’t been for Margaret you would likely have been looking at someone else on the podium for all of these years. Margaret was my champion, helping me and encouraging me to apply and, I think she rather strongly held sway when the final decision came down to offer a fairly inexperienced trumpet player the podium for the KWCO. Margaret’s encouragement in programming (“are you trying to kill the strings with this concert?!”) and level nurturing saved me (and us all) from ourselves on several occasions. Her help with string techniques made me just that much more dangerous on the podium. I also quickly learned when to not say anything.

I’m so grateful to Margaret for her leadership of the viola section and becoming an even more integral part of our musical family. I wish her the best in her retirement and her new life out west.

. . . Dan Warren, Music Director of the KWCO