A very important person in the life of many students of Cornelius Reid has passed away. I was lucky enough to have met with her one last time this March during a visit to New York City. I can’t put into words my gratitude to her for letting me come study with Cornelius during the last years of his life. She called him his soulmate and I always felt they were. I am convinced that her loving care for him has given us more time with him on this earth.
We only had brief encounters during my visits, since she was busy teaching herself and training to become an Alexander Technique teacher. But no matter how busy she might have been, she was always so friendly and welcoming to us.
She became a beloved voice teacher to students of Cornelius after his death and many singers across different styles of singing.
We all have to thank her for bringing new editions of his trilogy into the world, so they will always be there as a source of inspiration, knowledge and wisdom for generations to come.
And last but not least she built her own legacy through her YouTube Channel ‘Donna Reid Talks Voice’, where she has given the audience an idea of her approach to Cornelius’ work and principles. So there will always be footage to recapture and study her way of teaching and connecting with her students. What a gift that is.
You will be deeply missed, dear Donna.
Monika Kopp 