In memoriam
Mary Helen Richards, creator of Education Through Music and founding Director of the Richards Institute of Education and Research died peacefully in Portola Valley, California (San Francisco) on Saturday, September 26, 1998, the eve of her 77th birthday. Mary Helen's beginning research with children and music education began in the mid 50's and resulted in the publication of her first work, "Threshold to Music". Her development of this program led to her continued and ongoing exploration of how children learn, and the significant role of song and play in a child's development and learning. Education Through Music grew out of this early work, and the Richards Institute was established in the United States in 1969, and in Canada in 1972. She authored numerous publications over the succeeding years as she studied and worked with children and teachers across North America and Japan.
A Celebration of the
Very Special Life of Mary Helen Richards
"On August 8, 1999, in Windsor, Ontario, a memorial service was held
to celebrate the life and contribution of Mary Helen Richards. Many old
and new friends attended, and spoke of their personal and professional
association with her. She was honoured in song as Dr. Randal McChesney,
Executive Director of the Richards Institute in the United States led a
choir of Richards Institute faculty and friends in a special tribute to
her.
A Mary Helen Richards Trust
Fund has been established in both the United States and Canada. Mary Helen
touched the lives of many, and it is our hope that we can continue to
reach children and adults with the gift she has left.
A contribution in her name to help make possible special projects of
study, and the sharing of her insights would be appreciated, and would
help the continuance of this work. Tax receipts will be issued.
If you or others you know are able to make a contribution , please
provide the following information, and send to the Richards Institute
in Canada or the United States.