My sister Freda Posner (nee Coodin) (1940-2008) started studying the piano at the age of three and immediately showed signs of a great talent. Right from the start she performed at the Kiwanis music festival every year – and won every class she ever performed in! Every adjudicator showered Freda with superlatives. She quickly acquired formidable technique, giving her the means to express herself emotionally. She felt herself to be a kindred spirit of Beethoven and performed his piano sonatas at an early age as well as throughout her life. Her performance of his Appassionata was so explosive and deeply personal that for many it ranks with the truly great. Freda capped her early years in Winnipeg by winning the Aikins Memorial Trophy, the highest instrumental award at the Kiwanis music festival.
Freda took the performance exams of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto, achieving her ARCT designation by age 15. The Conservatory held examinations every year in Winnipeg (among other centres), sending examiners from their faculty in Toronto. She and her talent became well-known to them, and at the age of 16 Freda was offered a full scholarship, including residence, at the Conservatory. She was accepted as a student by renowned teacher Alberto Guerrero and studied with him for the two years she was there.
On her return to Winnipeg, Freda continued to be a well-known presence in the musical life of the city. She participated in recitals sponsored by various musical clubs and she performed with the Winnipeg Symphony under the direction of Maestro Victor Feldbrill. Freda went back to school, studying education, and gained her teaching qualification. She became a music specialist as a choral conductor at her school. She entered her choir in the music festival every year – and won every class she entered!
Submitted by Perry Coodin