MISS G. A. ARDAGH

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28895, 15 May 1959, Page 2

MISS G. A. ARDAGH

Miss Gertrude Ann Ardagh, a well-known Christchurch singer, died yesterday in the Mary Potter Hospice. She was 37. She had been in. the hospital only three days, but had been ill for 15 years. Born on March 8, 1922, Miss Ardagh was the second daughter of Mr and /Mrs J. J. Ardagh, Montreal street, Christchurch. She was educated by the Sisters of the Missions at Sacred Heart College, Christchurch, and completed her course at the Christchurch Teachers’ Training College in 1942. After teaching for a short time. Miss Ardagh worked in Begg’s music shop. When, she began music lessons at the Convent, Miss Ardagh was taught by Mrs J. Cox. She was successful in the competitions in both Timaru and Christchurch. She won the Gunner Memorial, the Crompton Cup and other awards. Winning the Melba scholarship nomination in Dunedin in 1942, Miss Ardagh was praised by the judge (Mr H. Temple White) for the exceptional refinement of her voice. He described her as a gifted lyric soprano, creating an atmosphere in whatever she sang. He invited her to sing with the Wellington Harmonic Society in September, 1944, when she was reported as having a beautifully controlled voice and the dramatic ability to convey emotion. During the war Miss Ardagh and her sisters Josephine and Pauline, were staunch patriotic workers. As a member of the Cheer-oh Patriotic Revue Concert Party and Begg’s Concert Party, Miss Ardagh entertained troops in camp. She composed the words and music for several songs. Miss Ardagh was a fine swimmer and she won several backstroke championships. After she became ill In 1944. Miss Ardagh continued singing for private functions, and was often heard at Roman Catholic weddings even in the North Island.