We are saddened to report the passing of one of Canada’s foremost horn virtuosos and educators.

Joan Thelma Watson was the Principal Horn of the Canadian Opera Company, and worked as a soloist and pedagogue. She died early this week at her home in Owen Sound, Ontario.

Joan was known as both an artists of both integrity and enthusiasm, and leaves a musical legacy that will not be forgotten.

Close friend, Alastair Kay writes via facebook:

I had a chance to visit her, Scott, her two sons Max and Joel, her three brothers from out west, plus a few ex horn students Rosyln and Kaitlin, and Stuart Laughton who are all at the house in Owen Sound. It’s hard to imagine that she had just finished playing the opera just weeks ago. Scott had said she during those gigs Joan would come straight from the hospital after a blood transfusion and play beautifully for the next 5 hours! She did feel it though and was tired, but she persevered. Scott and just a very few others in the orchestra knew of her condition at the time. After a flawless run of the opera, she came back to Owen Sound and very quickly her body started failing her. When I went up yesterday she was medicated and not able to respond, but she may still be able to hear all the kind word we were saying, and Stuart played guitar and sang some songs for her. She is being cared for very well with family and friends at her side. Our thoughts are with you Joan!

A Funeral Service for Joan Watson will be held in the Funeral Home Chapel, on Wednesday, March 18th, 2015 at 4:00 p.m.  Brian E. Wood Funeral Home: 250 – 14th Street West, Owen Sound, Ontario N4K 3X8 (519-376-7492) .

The family has requested donations to the Canadian Opera Company, the Owen Sound Hospital Foundation or the Boys and Girls Club of Canada as an expression of sympathy. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family on-line at www.woodfuneralhome.ca

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Michael Vincent

Michael Vincent is the Editor-in-chief Ludwig Van and CEO of Museland Media. He publishes regularly and writes occasionally. A specialist in digital media for over 15 years, he has worked as a senior editor and is a former freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star. Michael holds a Doctorate in Music from the University of Toronto.

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