Douglas Purvis

[JB]

I am sad to report that Douglas Purvis, principal tuba of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra passed away at his home Monday night due to complications from diabetes and kidney failure.

Doug joined the Ballet orchestra in 1972, under Maestro George Crum, and was with the full orchestra on all the major Sol Hurok tours. He was a valued member of our orchestra, one who never missed a performance until his illness 18 months ago.

Doug was born in Toronto Canada on March 6 , 1949. He grew up in Toronto, and continued his studies at the Eastman School of Music. He established his career as one of the top freelance players in Toronto, playing with both the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his orchestral work, Doug was a founding member of Toronto's Hannaford Street Silver Band, playing B-flat bass.

Doug was a fine player, and an important member of the Canadian tuba world. He will be missed.

There will be a memorial service held on July 2nd at 11:00 am at the Gilbert McIntyre Funeral Home in Guelph Ontario.

David Pell
Bass Trombone, National Ballet of Canada Orchestra

[JB]

Oops, I didn't see that S Johnson had already cut/pasted David Pell's
(Bass Trombone, National Ballet of Canada Orchestra) notice circulated earlier today. I posted same info as well.