RIP Juliette Cavazzi.
She was 'Canada's sweetheart" back in the 1950' & '60s and had her own variety show called The Juliette Show. She was simply known to Canadians as Juliette.
I remember having heard of her and had seen on tv in the '70s and early '80s. It wasn't until I entered the Musicfest Canada competition in 1982 that I had met her in person.
She was one of many well-known Canadians from the field of music on the judging panel for this competition, and I clearly recall Juliette clapping & smiling when I was playing in front of the panel.
The CBC studios on Shuter St. In Toronto's Cabbagetown area was where competitors (from Ontario) showcased their talents. Other Canadians from across the provinces had their own Musicfest judging panel & place.
I played on a Steinway grand piano, the first time I had ever layed my fingers on such a piano -- I was more familiar with uprights and baby grands -- and became slightly apprehensive and perhaps a little nervous at the thought of having to play this grand piano. Once I began my 10 minute repertoire (the slotted time given to everyone), I was put at ease conquering this grand behemoth of a musical instrument. It was quite possibly the best-sounding piano ever, (Steinway & Sons has long had a reputation for manufacturing the best concert grands), and I've sampled many a different piano name. My personal favourite for baby grands was the Wagner piano back in those days.
After I finished my presentation, as I got set to leave, Juliette came up to me and uttered some words of praise and she had a smile that was unforgettable. No wonder people liked her. She wore it well.
(For the record, I did not win the Musicfest Canada competition but nevertheless, it was a wonderful experience both in terms of preparation and learning. I had chosen to play under the category of "Pop Classics", a combination of popular and some classical pieces).
This was my fond memory of Juliette. Thank you for your kindness, your smile, and your graciousness. That, in a nutshell, was vintage Juliette.
http://nationalpost.com/pmn/entertainment-pmn/canadian-television-pioneer-your-pet-juliette-dies-at-91-in-vancouver
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