⁠⁠Greg’s passion for music and dedication to NYO Canada ran deep. His contributions as a board member were invaluable, as was his enthusiasm for supporting young musicians. Beyond his leadership, many remember Greg’s warm smile, infectious laugh, and genuine connection with everyone he met. In 2023, the orchestra travelled to Charlottetown for the first time in many years. The first person to meet the staff and musicians as they got off the bus was Greg. As a one-man welcoming committee proudly wearing his UPEI hat, he was beaming and so thrilled to welcome all of us to Charlottetown!  ⁠
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As a young musician, Greg honed his skills with the NYO Canada between 1976 and 1981, leaving a lasting mark with his talent and dedication. His passion for the arts led him to a commendable education career, shaping countless students’ lives until his retirement from the Music Department at the University of Prince Edward Island in 2019. Gregory’s absence leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, yet his spirit and legacy as a musician, educator, and friend will forever be cherished and will endure through the music he loved and the lives he touched.  ⁠

I knew Greg Irvine as a Tuba player, as a mentor, as a pedagogue, as a fellow NYO alumnus, and most recently the (extremely) proud parent of an NYO student. 

Greg embodied the spirit of what it means to be a musician in this great country: we all hail from many places, yet somehow come together to form a small, familiar, and proud musical community. 

Greg was not only a part of this community, but a leader and a role model, and I will miss him greatly. 

Sasha Johnson – Tuba Faculty and Alumnus (1993, 1996)

We extend our deepest sympathies to Sue and Adrian. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all of Greg’s loved ones during this difficult time. The entire NYO Canada community will deeply miss him. While we mourn his absence, we find solace in remembering his extraordinary life. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Charlottetown, offering a moment for friends, family, and admirers to gather to remember his extraordinary life. For those wishing to share their memories or learn more about Greg’s life, please visit his obituary here:

https://macleanfh.ca/death-notices/obituaries/?obit=gregory_boyd_irvine https://www.saltwire.com/prince-edward-island/obituaries/gregory-boyd-irvine-97702/

We invite you to share condolences, photos, and memories.