Following his last performance as conductor of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra this week, Bramwell Tovey has been honoured with a fitting legacy to mark his critically acclaimed 18 year tenure.

As well as the usual bouquets and best wishes came the news reported in the Vancouver 'Georgia Straight' newspaper that the $30 million VSO School of Music which he did so much to help create in 2011 will now be called the Tovey Centre for Music — encompassing both the building and its far reaching musical activities.

Regeneration

The Centre is a purpose built music school featuring 18 teaching studios, classrooms, practice rooms, ensemble room and recital hall, that since its opening has become a catalyst not just for its inspirational teaching of children but as a focal point of urban regeneration in the area.

In recent days Tovey has been the centre of a great deal of media attention — even appearing 'on the sofa' of a leading early morning news television programme.

Commitment

Talking about the VSO School of Music prior to the surprise announcement, he said: "We believe that this building, in this particular place, is a seed that has been planted in the middle of our great city, where we can take all the wonderful things that the city represents...and we can take our love of music and the joy of music and bring it to the lives of children across the city."

Such was his commitment to the project and proposed cuts to musical education that in 2016 he even took to the megaphone at a protest rally.

Such was his commitment to the project and proposed cuts to musical education that in 2016 he even took to the megaphone at a protest rally4BR

Champion

Speaking about his tenure as conductor, Vancouver Symphony Foundation chairperson stated: "Over the past eighteen seasons Bramwell has welcomed the opportunity to engage with the community and share his passion for music.

He has invested in this orchestra and this community, committing to artistic excellence and championing the importance of music education.

He helped open the VSO School of Music, which both his daughters attended, and served as its artistic advisor. He has been a leader of our cultural community and advocate for music in our schools, in our city and in our hearts. As Maestro, celebrating music has been a family affair.

His son Ben and his two daughters, Jessica and Emma, are each exceptional musicians in their own right; Lana Penner-Tovey, is a dedicated music educator, active community member, and an equal partner in the Tovey legacy. Together, Bramwell and Lana have worked to open doors for a wider appreciation of music, and our community has embraced it wholeheartedly."

Tovey will also become Music Director Emeritus of the orchestra when he officially takes his leave of his role.