Dr. Glenn D. Peirson Fund for the Arts (donor advised fund)
Glenn was a fan of writer and philosopher Soren Kierkegaard who said, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards”. A few of Glenn’s favourite things included Bach, the Beatles, Elton John (the early years), blueberries, the Grey Cup, Christmas, MAC computers, and Guelph. Dr. Peirson led an inspirational life – through his medical practice, his music, his poetry, his community involvement and volunteerism, his athleticism and love of sports, and mostly, his love of family. Glenn had a wonderfully keen sense of humor and he loved to tease and bother his wife and two children as much as possible. After a three year battle with cancer, at the age of 44, Dr. Glenn Peirson passed away on November 10, 2009.
“I come from a family with a very strong tradition of service to the community,” says Glenn’s wife Mary. “My father, Jim Beingessner, is an extraordinary volunteer and always says, ‘To whom more has been given, more is expected’. He is my role model for exceptional citizenship and volunteerism and he helped me establish this fund in Glenn’s honour”. The Dr. Glenn D. Peirson Fund for the Arts is a donor advised fund that supports musical arts organizations with emphasis on choral music and singing for children.
Glenn’s legacy and love for music will support and inspire many musicians and singers in the years to come. The first award was granted to the Guelph Youth Singers in spring 2010. Choral singing promotes not just physical health (such as improved lung capacity, high energy, relieved asthma and better posture) but offers emotional and spiritual benefits (such as feelings of relaxation and confidence). Choral singing is a highly disciplined and creative team activity and harmonizing with others fills the heart with a renewed sense of promise and optimism.
Photo above: The late Glenn Peirson with wife Dr. Mary Peirson and children Theodora and Henry.