ORILLIA MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY
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Glenn Gould, one of the most celebrated pianists of the 20th century, achieved international standing during his short life. This Canadian icon called his family cottage near Uptergrove on Lake Simcoe his summer home for many years.
The cottage on MacDonald Beach was a retreat for Gould, a place where he found solace and an escape from the pressure and fame his talent brought.
At the cottage, Glenn could be Glenn.
Glenn enjoyed nature, boated, fished and went for long walks with his dog. While there he played his Chickering piano, which had been moved to the cottage for him.
Local residents have stories to tell about their interactions with Glenn. They recall hearing him playing piano at the cottage well into the early hours of the morning, seeing him dining regularly at the ‘The Shang’ (now Brewery Bay Restaurant) and shopping at the stores in Orillia.
Dr. Chris Decker brings Glenn Gould and his connection to our area to life with his talk that was recently recorded at the Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH).
Click on the link to hear Dr. Chris Decker explore the fascinating, eccentric life of Glenn Gould and his essential and special bond to Uptergrove and to Orillia.
Maybe you have reminiscences of Glenn that you recall as well? We invite you to share them in the comments section. Here is the link.
The History Committee thanks Dr. Decker for providing us with fascinating insight into Glenn Gould and his local connection and for helping OMAH share our history through social media during OMAH’s closure due to the COVID – 19 restrictions.
OMAH continues to look at ways to keep connected to our community, by regularly showcasing both art and history through social media. Please consider becoming part of OMAH’s community by engaging with us virtually on FACEBOOK and Instagram.
OMAH From Home is the museum’s digital engagement campaign that helps you to stay connected through our local arts, heritage and culture. Please consider supporting OMAH by renewing your membership or becoming a donor by clicking on the Support page on OMAH’s website.
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