Boucher, Joseph-Arthur
Joseph-Arthur Boucher. Bassist, conductor, choirmaster, bandmaster, b Montreal 2 Apr 1869, d there 20 Dec 1927. It is likely that his father, Adélard Joseph Boucher, was responsible for the main part of his musical education. He is credited with being the first person (1887) to bring together and conduct an instrumental ensemble under the name of Symphonie de Montréal. He also founded the Montreal Band, which gave concerts in the parks. Choirmaster for 23 years at St-Jean-Baptiste Church and for three years at St-Michel Church, he also conducted the Shamrock Club Orchestra. His daughter Marie-de-Lourdes (b Montreal ca 1895, d there 20 Jul 1975) was a pianist renowned for her virtuosity and for her sight-reading ability.
See also François Boucher (his brother).