Musician brings world-class music to Midland after a lifetime in harmony

John French founded Brookside Music Association in 2010 and has presented visiting performers while expanding the charity into school outreach programs in Midland.

John French has spent decades building musical life in Midland and now leads the Brookside Music Association. He founded the charity in 2010 to present year-round concerts and the Festival of the Bay. The association has brought visiting performers to local venues and later added educational programs for schools. French's musical roots began in childhood and include community projects such as the Midland Legion Pipes and Drums. Notable facts: - John French began piano at age five and credits early teacher Margery Olmsted with inspiring his love of music. - He holds an Associate Diploma from the Royal Conservatory of Music, a Bachelor of Music and a Master's in Musicology, and serves as artistic director of Brookside Music Association. - Brookside, founded in 2010, runs year-round concerts and the Festival of the Bay, featuring visiting ensembles such as The Fretless, the Vienna Boys Choir and Sultans of String. - In 2012 Brookside partnered with the Gryphon Trio and the Children's Community Choir on Listen Up!, a school outreach program that led students to co-create a six-movement cantata. - In 2015 Brookside commissioned composer John Beckwith for the documentary cantata Wendake-Huronia, which was performed at regional festivals and during Canada's 150th anniversary events. - French has received local recognition including the Excellence in Culture Award and the Qennefer Brown Award for lifetime contribution to arts and culture in North Simcoe. Summary: French's work has brought visiting artists and structured music education into Midland, combining public concerts with outreach that involved students in composition and performance. He plans to continue presenting local concerts, maintain educational integration into schools, and to keep playing the piano.