Rod Michell has been a vital presence at CFBX for many years, hosting the much-loved Classical Connections program with warmth, insight, and a deep love of music. Rod never lectured from a classical perch. Rather, he welcomed us into the heart of the music—making each piece more alive for his listeners.

Rod’s contributions to the Kamloops Symphony and the Kamloops Adult Learners Society (KALS) have enriched our community for decades. As Ginny Ratsoy writes, “Rod is the hardest working KALS instructor I know… The Kamloops community has benefitted greatly from Rod’s contributions.”

During his early seasons performing with the Kamloops Symphony, Rod Simmons recalls that Rod Michell was involved in several ways. He often wrote extensive programme notes for each concert and would speak with audience members in the lobby about the music’s socio- historical context. “Rod’s work provided years of KSO audiences with a much broader concert experience than would have been possible without his efforts. I still miss the quality and depth of knowledge he gifted us with in those years.”

CFBX host Julie Simmons adds, “Because I am visually impaired and unable to drive, Rod has been my ride to and from all of my classes. He is such a kind and gentle soul and a pure delight to be around.”

We thank Rod for his years of dedication, his kindness, and the music he’s shared with us all — not as an “expert”, but as a companion. We wish him well in his well-earned retirement.