Nicholas Goldschmidt, a powerful force in the Arts and Culture of Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding district, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2004, at the age of 95. Instrumental in the foundation of the Art Gallery of Algoma, and the Algoma Festival Choir, "Niki" is most well known locally for his role as the Artistic Director of the Algoma Fall Festival, a role he held since helping to found the festival more than 30 years ago (1973). Mr. Goldschmidt was also well known outside our community.

He was the first director of the Royal Conservatory Opera School, which later became the Canadian Opera Company. And, he was also instrumental in starting a number music festivals across the country, from Guelph in Southern Ontario to Vancouver, British Columbia.

Few people in the lives of any of us possess that intangible quality of persona sometimes referred to as 'greatness'. Nicholas Goldschmidt imbued that quality with Grace. Governor General Adrienne Clarkson described him as "...a force of nature ... whose joy and love of music infused every festival, concert and class of which he was a vital part."

Niki came to Canada in 1945, not to bring artistic culture but – as one of his many Sault friends described it – because he recognized that Canadians possessed the talent and latent qualities that would place them among the world's finest musical artists. He devoted his lifelong work towards achieving that goal until his recent passing at the age of ninety-five.

Comfortable and respected in any setting; social, business, cultural or otherwise, Niki could be found sharing conversation over a bowl of soup in a local diner one day, and attending to events of national or world significance in the presence of statesmen and royalty the next.

Niki loved the Sault and Algoma. From his first visits in the early 70's, he devoted a significant part of his creative energy to working with local cultural leaders in order to enrich a growing community. It was Niki who, in reflecting on the glorious colours of an Algoma autumn, used his oft-used phrase: "You have it!" And so we did – and the Algoma Fall Festival was born. The city and community in turn recognized his efforts including honourary Sault citizenship, a Doctorate Degree from AUC, and the continuing Nicholas Goldschmidt Award in music. It will be part of his legacy that many feel empowered to continue the efforts for local cultural enrichment that he was part of.

I know that I reflect the sentiments of many when I state that I am thankful for the brush with greatness and wonderful memories afforded by his presence and leadership. When the sense of loss is so keen, one recognizes that someone very worthy has passed. Farewell, old friend. You have touched us deeply.
– Doug McChesney