In memoriam

Dr. Robin Wood, principal emeritus of the Victoria Conservatory and for many years the Lansdowne scholar for UVic's school of music, died after a lengthy battle with cancer on Feb. 28. Two nights before his death, the Lieutenant Governor presented Robin and his wife, Winifred Scott Wood, with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their 39 years of service and support to the province's musical community. Robin wore many hats during his lifetime, including performer, host of a television music program, adjudicator and examiner. But he was pre-eminently the finest piano teacher of his generation in Western Canada. Known also for his many kindnesses and acts of generosity towards students, his pupils also tell affectionate stories about his love of cats, late night radio, computers and outrageous puns, and his obsession with the Vancouver Canucks. In January Robin told me, "I'm doing what I love doing. My only regret is that I won't likely see my present students through to the end of their time here." Robin continued to teach until a week before his death.

Contributed by Bruce Vogt, head of piano in the school of music and a colleague for 24 years. For the full tribute to Dr. Wood visit www.finearts.uvic.ca/music/intro.