Today's performance is dedicated to the memory of

Chris Buckley

A musician of remarkable generosity who gave so much to the NBYO and to the young musicians in the orchestra.

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A graduate of Kennebecasis Valley High School, Chris pursued advanced musical studies abroad at the Guildhall School of Music in London.

Following his studies, he joined the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and later completed a two-year residency with the Resident String Quartet under the sponsorship of the Yehudi Menuhin Foundation. In the late 1980s, Chris returned to Saint John, where he co-founded the Saint John String Quartet alongside Sonja and David Adams. He also served as Principal Violist and Personnel Manager of Symphony New Brunswick, roles through which he helped shape the province’s orchestral life for decades.

Chris’s influence extended far beyond the concert stage. He was a long-time instructor at the New Brunswick Summer Music Camp in Fredericton, where his musical insight was matched only by his quirky humour—students fondly recall being challenged with math equations mid-lesson, delivered with his unmistakable wit and warmth. 

For over 25 years, Chris served as Viola Coach for the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, providing countless sectionals, individual lessons, and ensemble coachings. His guidance shaped not only strong musicians, but confident, thoughtful young people. When Sistema New Brunswick launched in Saint John in 2009, Chris and the Saint John String Quartet played a pivotal role in supporting the program’s very first year. Chris also was a Teaching Artist at the Sistema NB Saint John Centre, supporting the launch of the new centre and working with a brand-new group of students.

In recognition of this extraordinary commitment to young musicians and orchestral music in the province, Chris—along with the Saint John String Quartet—was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s NBYO Distinction Award in 2012.

While music was central to Chris’s life, people were at the heart of it. Known throughout Saint John as a familiar and welcoming presence, he could often be found walking through the city for a coffee or a beer, always ready to join a conversation. With the String Quartet, he travelled extensively across southern New Brunswick, performing in festivals and community spaces. Listeners may remember his cheerful CBC radio introductions, beginning with: “This is your friendly neighbourhood Spiderman letting you know that…” After performances, he delighted in gathering with friends and strangers alike, soaking in the energy of a local pub and the joy of shared experience.

Chris was a tireless supporter of local artists, regularly attending concerts, CD launches, and exhibitions across the Maritimes. His love for the viola was unmistakable, but even more evident was his desire to share music freely—playing in hospital rooms, churches, restaurants, and private homes. For Chris, music was an act of connection, generosity, and care.

Those who knew Chris will remember his compassion, his corny jokes, and his legendary hugs—long, heartfelt, and sincere. He valued people deeply and made everyone feel seen.

Chris is survived by a large and loving family, including his parents Muriel and Bob; his siblings and their families; and most especially his son Seth, who was the great joy of his life.

The New Brunswick Youth Orchestra honours Chris Buckley with profound gratitude. His legacy lives on in the countless musicians he inspired, taught, encouraged, and believed in—and in the music they continue to share.