Celebrated Arts Leader Rita Menzies Leaves Lasting Legacy

Rita Menzies, a prominent figure in Manitoba’s arts scene, passed away in June 2023 at the age of 83 after a brief battle with cancer. Her career spanned several decades, during which she made significant contributions to the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra (MCO) and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO). Menzies’ impact on the region’s cultural landscape has been profound, as she played a vital role in the development and sustainability of these organizations.

Menzies began her journey in the arts sector in 1972 when she co-founded the MCO. Initially a volunteer-driven initiative, the organization struggled to gain traction. However, her leadership and understanding of the administrative side of the arts helped stabilize the orchestra’s finances. By the late 1970s, the MCO transitioned from makeshift offices to a more structured organization, ultimately earning a reputation as a respected venue for renowned soloists.

In 2004, Menzies retired from her role as general manager of the MCO, but her departure from the spotlight was short-lived. The following year, she stepped in as interim director of the WSO, which was facing a significant financial deficit of approximately $3 million. With Menzies at the helm, the orchestra not only weathered this crisis but also ended the 2003-2004 season with a surplus. Violinist and WSO concertmaster Karl Stobbe remarked, “I really have to give Rita credit for saving the WSO in a time when people were not sure it could be saved.”

Despite her retirement, Menzies continued to engage with the arts community, leading the Agassiz Summer Chamber Music Festival for over a decade and returning as the WSO’s executive director in 2006. Her dedication to the arts remained unwavering until her final days. Paul Marleyn, artistic director of Agassiz, emphasized Menzies’ commitment, stating, “How fitting that Rita worked in the frontline of Winnipeg’s arts community until a few weeks before her passing.”

A Legacy Built on Dedication and Passion

Born in Kitchener, Ontario, in 1942, Menzies was not only an accomplished administrator but also a gifted musician. She taught math and English at Kelvin High School while nurturing her passion for music. Her husband, Don Menzies, served as the organist at Westminster United Church, where the couple’s love for classical music flourished. This environment fostered Menzies’ appreciation for the arts, which would later inform her career choices.

Throughout her tenure, Menzies was known for her remarkable work ethic, often balancing her professional responsibilities with family life. Her daughter Jeannette Menzies, a former Canadian diplomat, recalls the sounds of classical music filling their home. “We loved having her around when we were young,” she said, highlighting the influence Menzies had on her family.

Menzies’ approach to leadership was characterized by her ability to connect with people and her commitment to building relationships. She was adept at securing funding and fostering a supportive community around the organizations she led. Vicki Young, who succeeded Menzies at the MCO, noted, “To bring on people like Elise and Jon and Boyd — I think is pretty incredible.” Menzies’ legacy is evident in the continued success and growth of the MCO, which has maintained its commitment to balanced budgets and community engagement.

Honoring a Life of Service and Artistry

Even in her later years, Menzies remained actively involved in the arts. She not only directed the Agassiz Summer Chamber Music Festival but also took up watercolour painting and embraced her role as a consummate hostess for events in the community. Her passion for cooking and commitment to family were evident in the many dinners she prepared for guest artists and her family gatherings.

As the Winnipeg arts community mourns her passing, her influence will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. Menzies’ dedication to fostering a rich cultural environment in Manitoba reflects the values she instilled in those around her. “Behind everything was Rita’s love of life, her family, music, the arts, of people and of the Winnipeg community,” Marleyn said.

Rita Menzies’ contributions to the arts extend beyond her administrative achievements; they encompass a spirit of kindness, hard work, and a genuine love for music and community. Her legacy serves as an inspiring example for future generations in the arts sector, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on a community.