Board Members & Volunteers


John French - Founder and Artistic Director
705-528-0521

Born and raised in Midland, John French began his music studies at the age of five with piano lessons. From these early piano lessons, the love of music lead to a B.Mus. Degree from Wilfrid Laurier University, an ARTC in piano performance and studies in Salzburg, Austria.

John French is on the examining board of Conservatory Canada and is highly involved in other community organizations in Huronia.

Learn more about John French.

Angela Monaghan - Secretary

Angela Monaghan is a teacher at St. Theresa’s Catholic High School and counsellor (OACCPP) with On T.R.A.C. for BULLYING PREVENTION. She studied music, geography, psychology, sociology, and anthropology at Bishop’s University (Quebec) and University of Lethbridge (Alberta) before attending Brock University (Ontario) to earn her B.Ed.

As a vocalist Angela has done solo and choral work in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, and Utah. She also played trombone with Westwinds and now plays flute with One in the Spirit. Since playing flute is her favourite form of prayer, Angela feels music is essential to a full life. Thus, she is thrilled to support Brookside Music Association.

James G. Young - Board Member

Dr. Young has held prominent positions during numerous national and international disasters and emergencies. He had a long career with the Ontario Government and served as Chief Coroner of Ontario for 15 years, as the first Commissioner of Emergency Management and as the Assistant Deputy Minister of Public Safety for the Solicitor General. In the later role the Centre of Forensic Sciences, Emergency Measures Ontario and the Ontario Fire Marshal reported to him.

As Ontario’s former Commissioner of Emergency Management, Dr. Young provided guidance on a number of unprecedented provincial emergencies. He led the central operation during the 1998 ice storm, which devastated eastern Ontario. He played a pivotal role in the Government of Ontario’s management of SARS and was honoured with the President’s Award from the College of Physicians and Surgeons for effective emergency coordination and public communications during the outbreak. During the August 2003 power blackout, he ensured a coordinated government response and effective communication with the public. In recognition for these efforts and his role as one of Canada’s foremost forensic scientists, Dr. Young was honoured with the Order of Ontario in 2005.

Anne Armour - Board Member

Anne is a retired business owner of two companies; Brand Marketing & Distribution and ZUZU Fashion Boutique (one a National wholesale company supplying all of the major Hardware Chains of Canada and the other a Retail Women's clothing store).

She currently lives in Victoria Harbour where she works as a Ceramic Artist under the name; Three Birds Pottery. Anne is passionate about music, art and sailing. She is a sixteen-year member of Shout Sister Choir and assisted in establishing three choirs in the Simcoe Region.

Pat O'Dell - Board Member

Pat O'Dell, retired Toronto District School Board Vice Principal, Secondary Special Education Department Head, Secondary teacher, Elementary teacher. Travelled extensively to Europe, Africa, Untied States, Canada, and the Caribbean.

Lover of music, art, culinary arts, event planning and fundraising. Volunteer and sponsor of Home-Free charity.