In Memoriam | Professor Iwan Edwards

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Iwan Edwards on March 4, 2022. 

While Iwan’s involvement with the faculty started as early as 1970 as part-time Band Director while concurrently teaching at the Lachine High School, he was best known for his work with choirs. In 1989, he accepted a regular contract with the faculty and then moved into a tenure-track position in 1992. In the early 1990s, he also took on the role of Chair of the Department of Performance, leading through periods of great change and transition. Following his retirement from his Associate Professor appointment in 2001, his dedication to our students continued through judging exams and recitals. One always knew that Iwan was in the building with his joyous laugh echoing in the halls.

Apart from his many duties at McGill, he was actively involved in the choral scene outside of the University. To name just a few, he conducted and/or prepared the choruses for the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, the St. Lawrence Choir, the F.A.C.E. Children’s Choir, Concerto Della Donna, the Ottawa Choral Society, the National Youth Choir, the Canadian Chamber Choir… the list goes on.

One can visit the Montreal Gazette, CBC, and CTV News articles which highlight his extensive list of professional achievements including his appointment to the Order of Canada in 1995 and becoming a recipient of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.

We recognize the deep and lasting impact that Iwan had and continues to have on the music community both at McGill and beyond. A devoted teacher, mentor and friend, he will be dearly missed by McGill colleagues, students, alumni and friends.  

In memory of his time at the School, we invite you to listen to a performance from the archives — hear Iwan Edwards conduct the McGill Symphony Orchestra, the McGill Concert Choir, and the McGill Chamber Singers on February 21, 1992 in Mozart's Davide Penitente, K. 469.