
Michael Perry, Principal Timpanist at The National Ballet of Canada, Passes Away
The classical music community is mourning the loss of Michael Perry, who served as Principal Timpanist for The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra for over 40 years before retiring at the end of the 2021/22 season. Perry passed away suddenly, as announced by The National Ballet of Canada in a recent Facebook post. He was a beloved member of the orchestra and left behind a legacy of inspired performances.
Perry joined The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra in 1982 and went on to become the longest-serving principal timpanist in the company's history. His musical talent and commitment shone through in every performance, providing the heartbeat and rhythmic foundation for the orchestra.
A Consummate Percussionist
As principal timpanist, Perry delivered thundering rolls at climatic moments in ballets that gave audiences goosebumps. His technical precision and musicality elevated many performances over the years. Fellow musician John Loomis remarked on Facebook:
"The NBC Orchestra is ALWAYS amazing and Michael’s thundering rolls at climatic points, always gave me goosebumps. He will be sorely missed. Thank-you, Michael, for your wonderful contribution to the NBC."
Perry’s role involved far more than just playing the timpani. He contributed to the overall balance and ensemble cohesion of the orchestra with his sensitive ear and adaptable playing style across a range of repertoire.
An Integral Member of the NBC Orchestra Family
In addition to his musical excellence, Perry was beloved for his warm, collegial spirit. In a statement upon his retirement, he shared:
“I have always enjoyed not only the high caliber and musical commitment of my colleagues all these years, but also the feeling of collegial warmth, like a family, always feeling like coming home when at work.”
Perry formed close bonds with fellow musicians in The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra over his 40-year tenure. He described the orchestra as “the steadiest, most reliable and important musical engagement” of his career and felt “proud and honored” to share the stage with his talented colleagues.
An Illustrious Career
Perry believed performing with The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra for so many years was a true privilege. He participated in countless rewarding performances of iconic ballets like Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Romeo and Juliet.
For Perry, the orchestra provided a stable musical home where he could develop mastery of his craft over decades of devotion. The pinnacle of his career was reaching the rank of principal timpanist and shaping countless performances with his creative percussion skills.
A Sudden Loss
The circumstances around Perry’s untimely death are still unknown. The National Ballet of Canada has not provided further details at this time. His passing no doubt leaves a major void in the orchestra he was so integral to for most of his professional life.
As the NBC Orchestra continues on, Perry's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched with his music. While he can never be replaced, his memory will inspire future generations of percussionists in Canada and beyond.
The classical music world has lost one of its most dedicated performers and educators. Michael Perry’s contributions to The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of working with him or hearing his artistry. His death is a tragedy, but his musical spirit will continue to resonate for years to come.
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