Saugeen Shores Municipal Heritage Committee chair Joyce Johnston [left] and Mayor Mike Smith present the Heritage Conservation Award to Jeanette Steeves. (photo by Jordan MacKinnon) Saugeen Shores Municipal Heritage Committee chair Joyce Johnston [left] and Mayor Mike Smith present the Heritage Conservation Award to Jeanette Steeves. (photo by Jordan MacKinnon)
Midwestern

Saugeen Shores Presents Its 2016 Heritage Conservation Award

One of Saugeen Shores longest tenured musical talents is being honoured as she prepares to step aside.

Jeanette Steeves has been awarded the 2016 Heritage Conservation Award by the Saugeen Shores Municipal Heritage Committee for her four decades of conducting award-winning choirs.

Committee chair Joyce Johnston says it's the first time they have chosen a musician for the heritage award, adding music is as much a part of the community's heritage as buildings and other landmarks.

Steeves founded the Port Elgin Centennial Singers in 1974 for the town's 100th anniversary, which continues today as the Chantry Singers, as well as the Children's Festival Chorus and the Allegro Youth Chorus.

Steeves also founded the A Cappella Chamber Choir of Saugeen Shores, whom she will conduct for her final performance on November 5 at the Port Elgin United Church.

"This is the end of conducting choirs right now, or perhaps probably forever, it's been a long time," says Steeves. "As I say, I'm halfway through my 43rd year."

Steeves adds she hopes Saugeen Shores will continue to produce musical talent as the next generation takes over.

Steeves was also a Port Elgin municipal councillor for three years and is a member of the Saugeen Shores Hall of Fame as a community builder.

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