BARBARA L. PENTLAND

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BARBARA L. PENTLAND Canada lost a distinguished composer with the peaceful passing of Dr. Barbara L. Pentland, 88, on February 5, 2000, at her Vancouver home. Born in Winnipeg in 1912, Pentlands innovative and daring compositions explored new areas of contemporary music and continue to inspire experimental composers today. Pentlands accolades included the Order of Canada (1989), the Order of B.C. (1993), an honorary doctorate of law from the University of Manitoba (1976) and an honorary degree from Simon Fraser University (1985). As early as 1977 she received the Diplome dHonneur for her outstanding contribution to the arts in Canada. She also co-founded the Canadian League of Composers. Pentlands academic career began at the Toronto Conservatory of Music (1948-1949). Between 1949-1963 she was a professor of theory and composition for the University of British Columbias music department. In 1958 she married John Hally Huberman, son of noted violinist Bronislaw Huberman. Artists performing Pentlands work include Glenn Gould, local pianist Robert Rogers, harpist Erica Goodman, vocalist Phyllis Mailing and the Purcell String Quartet. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Pentland continued experimenting with music trends, adopting the use of microtones and improvisation to further her work. Pentland was predeceased by her brother Charles (1953), her sister Christine (1995) and her husband John Huberman (1996). She is survived by her stepdaughter Joan Payne (nee Huberman). Friends and colleagues are invited to a gathering on Sunday, March 5, 1:00 p.m., at her home at 4769 W. 6th Avenue, Vancouver.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 12, 2000