Transformational gift strikes a chord for Western’s Don Wright Faculty of Music
The Moscovich Fund for Innovation in Music will bring top artists to Western, enriching the student experience
Jim and Barbara Moscovich have bonded over a belief in the power of education and a love of music since they met. Those passions also inspired the couple’s recent $2.5-million donation to the Don Wright Faculty of Music at Western University.
“Music creates community and culture,” said Jim. “Barbara and I hope our gift will expand possibilities for students so they can push boundaries, take risks and advance creativity – at Western and across the industry.”
The Moscovich Fund for Innovation in Music will support visiting artists and artists-in-residence programming, inviting internationally renowned musicians – composers, scholars, performers and conductors – to work with students and engage with the community.
“We are deeply grateful for Jim and Barbara’s visionary support of the Don Wright Faculty of Music and for their commitment to Western over so many years,” said Western President Alan Shepard. “Their heartfelt gift will enable students to learn from world-class musicians, inspiring a new generation of creators and performers.”
Western recently honoured Jim, a professor emeritus with Western’s classical studies department, and Barbara, MA’68, Dip’71 (Education), by naming a recital hall after them.
“We are thrilled by the Moscovichs’ commitment to enhance our music program at Western,” said Michael Kim, dean of the Faculty of Music.
“Jim and Barbara are accomplished educators, and they understand that one of the best ways to teach is to model. When they came forward with this gift and we imagined the possibilities, it was emotional and energizing for all of us. We are profoundly grateful for their generosity – and I know we’re going to see wonderfully transformational experiences for our music students as a result.”
For Jim and Barbara, supporting the next generation of artists is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“Music brings people together. It sparks emotion and brings beauty and joy to others. It’s an honour to be a part of the music community at Western, and we know we are doing something worthwhile by supporting students,” Barbara said.
Read full story and view photos from dedication event (via Western News by Cassie Dowse, November 25, 2025)
Photo: Frank Neufeld/Western News
