Inverness Oran Entertainment

Entertainment

Musicians and patrons come together to remember Pius and to assist youth

                                     Left to right: Neil McDaniel, Kevin Lesvesconte, with vocalist Bertha MacLean.
October 9, 2024
-by John Gillis
    A beautiful framed colour photograph of the late beloved musician, Pius MacIsaac, sits on top of the piano on the corner stage at Glenora Distillery.
    It’s an appropriate place to display it as Pius always felt so at home on that stage for thousands of hours during so many years.
    It’s a reminder of the fondness and love felt for Pius by the staff and so many of those who frequent The Glenora Inn and Distillery as well as those in the wider community.
    Sunday, October 6th, from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. marked the second year of this tribute event, which is held to remember Pius and his contributions to the community.
    This year again, at Glenora, many musicians came together for an open mic to celebrate and remember Pius and to share an evening of friendship through tunes, song, dance, and stories.
    The event was hosted by frequent Glenora Inn entertainer and friend of Pius, multi-instrumentalist Neil McDaniel.
    “Last year, we had an overwhelming response that resulted in raising $7,500. These funds are destined to help youth access/advance music and community values, Inn manager and long-time friend of Pius, Donnie Campbell noted in his opening remarks.
    The funds raised helped create the Pius MacIsaac Memorial Music Award.
    The music was soon underway with the duo of Kevin Lesvesconte and Neil McDaniel, who were later joined by talented vocalist Bertha MacLean, who sang Fields of Athenry.
    Some of the musicians who performed during the evening included Sandra Gillis, John Moloney, Cecil MacQuarrie and John R. Fontaine, Taya MacDonald, Fin MacDougall, and more.
    Brendan Moloney, nephew of Pius, shared an original song that he wrote inspired by his uncle.
    Michelle Greenwell noted that the first year some of the funds raised went to supporting musical talents at Dalbrae Academy and Inverness Education Centre Academy from grades nine through 12. Taya MacDonald, now a grade 12 student of Dalbrae and Caragh Kennedy of Inverness were awarded. Both students were mentored by Pius in their youth. Caragh’s musical accomplishments include the release of a single and a CD and she is currently busy with studies at St. F.X. University.
    Sadie Moloney, sister to Pius, was very moved by the tribute which included a full house in attendance and she thanked everyone for taking part and contributing.
    “Hopes are to build on this and the family wishes that funds may also go towards helping youth in future with lessons or instruments,” Michelle Greenwell concluded.
     “Pius was always happy and proud to share this stage and many others with many who performed. I think of the countless times Pius walked in the door of The Distillery, plugged in his guitar/mandolin and instantly took over the focus of those who filled the room. During these gigs, not only did Pius encourage the seasoned musician to share the spotlight, he also encouraged the shy novice. With smiles all around, the biggest often belonged to him,” Donnie Campbell remembered shortly after his passing.
    Anyone still wishing to donate for the fund, can do so via e-transfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
    It’s great to see the candle still burning for Pius.





 

 

 


    

 

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The Inverness Oran
15767 Central Avenue. P.O. Box 100
Inverness, Nova Scotia. B0E 1N0
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