I am interested in your recent profiles of distinguished alumni. In the case of Stephan Moccio (“Alumni Donoghue, Moccio earn Oscar nods,” Jan. 14, and “Western alumni, faculty among JUNO nominees,” Feb. 5).
I must protest the omission, as far as I can find in your reporting, of any mention of Stephan’s piano professor, who Moccio himself acknowledges, had a very significant role in his success. The study of a musical instrument is unique, being entirely one-to-one unlike most other classes of 50 or more. Professor John Paul Bracey has produced some of the finest piano talents to graduate from the Don Wright Faculty of Music. Moccio has continued to remain in appreciative contact with his mentor and while Western takes unabashed advertising credit for Stephan Moccio’s success, no acknowledgment seems to be forthcoming for the teacher who laid the foundation and nourished the talent and development of this Canadian luminary.
Ralph Aldrich
Professor Emeritus, Don Wright Faculty of Music