Honorary degree citation - Mario Duschenes*

By: James H. Whitelaw, December 1979

Mr. Chancellor, I have the honour to present to you Mario Duschenes, distinguished flautist, teacher and missionary. Winner of the prix de virtuosité at the Conservatory of Geneva, he is an outstanding performer who has also taught flute in leading Canadian universities and schools. He has been one of the pioneersin the rebirth of the recorder, and his methods are widely used in schools.

As missionary, he directs regular series of symphony concerts for children in Montreal and Quebec, and weekly concerts on television. He has been a prime mover in organizing activities for amateur musicians, including summer camps for whole families. He directs noon-hour programmes open to all. He excels in the art of making a learning experience enjoyable. Language is no problem for him - his mastery of French and English is second only to his mastery of the language of music.

It is no mean feat to cajole 2,000 children in this very hall into giving Bach a sympathetic hearing. He can incite the most philistine father into participation in family music. He provides for ulcer-ridden executives, for harried housewives, and countless others the opportunity of spending their lunch hour in an atmosphere of informative relaxation.

This University gives a high priority to service to the community. It is indeed appropriate that it should recognize the splendid contribution of one who has tirelessly worked to bring music to people of all ages and all walks of life in that community.

Mr. Chancellor, it is a privilege to present to you, on behalf of the Senate and by the authority of the Board of Governors, Mario Duschenes, that you may confer on him the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.

* deceased