Richard Ely Scholarship
UVic school of music professor emeritus, Richard (Dick) Ely died Nov. 17, 1999 at the age of 65.
Ely was born in Missoula, Montana and studied French horn at the University of Montana, later earning his master’s degree from the University of Illinois. He was a member of the Denver and Dallas symphonies before he and his wife, harpist Kathryn Ely, came to Canada in 1970 to join the Victoria Symphony. Soon afterwards, Ely began teaching at UVic, which he continued even after his retirement this summer.
Family, colleagues, students and friends filled the school of music’s recital hall for a remembrance service Nov. 22. Long-time friend and fellow founding member of the Pacific Wind Quintet, Prof. Lanny Pollet, remarked upon Ely’s life, artistry and teaching. “His symphonic playing was luminous. In chamber music, and for that matter in any context, he was known and respected for his artistry and for being the sheer embodiment of musical experience,” Pollet said. “(He) had high ideals and was a teacher who looked out for the best interests of his students and of music students as a whole.”
Many of the talented students attracted to the school came specifically to study with Ely. He published a rhythm study book for all instruments, Accuracy in Rhythm, and made recordings for CBC Radio, Dutch National Radio, and Radio Suisse Romande.
He is survived by Kathryn and daughter Elizabeth.