Pretoria Boys High, Old Boys tribute
A tribute to Sylvia Reid, HOD Music, PBHS, 1988-1997
In the Staff Notes section of The Pretorian of 1997, the Headmaster, Mr Bill Schroder, wrote the following: “We will regrettably be saying goodbye to Mrs Sylvia Reid who will be taking early retirement at the end of this year. She has been a member of our dynamic Music Department since January 1988. Her inestimable contribution to and control of a complex, potentially volatile and exciting department will be remembered for a long time as will the many pleasurable events produced by the various disciplines of this department under her leadership.”
There is also a tribute by the current writer in the same magazine which reads as follows: “In the Music Department we have, on occasion, joked with our Head of Department, Sylvia H Reid, by singing Schubert’s song (to the Shakespeare poem): Who is Sylvia? Who indeed – “that Hea’en such grace would lend her?” In ten years – since 1988 – we have not begun to fathom this.
What we do know is considerable: A teaching philosophy that includes and embraces, a work-ethic that inspires, an astounding compassion for human nature with all its flaws and an unshakeable loyalty to all who are deserving thereof. But this does not tell us who Sylvia is. Maybe if we could get two entire generations of boys together, whom she has taught at Boys High, they would be able to shed some light on the matter: Piano lessons, theory lessons, history of music, aural training, harmony, orchestra, choir, practical exams –of these they may or may not have pleasant memories – but will they tell us who Sylvia is?
How does one sum up ten years of endeavour? There is so little that is tangible, yet so much was accomplished, established and refined. I don’t know who Sylvia is, but behind her in the Music Department at Boys High, she leaves a portion of herself that has become part of the very fabric of the school.
And all we can do, is say a humble goodbye and thank you. Thank you for teaching and sharing and guiding. Boys High will miss you.”
I am tempted to say no more, though much more could be said. I would have liked to quote Sylvia’s own words in the Music Report of the same year (p 65). But then I would have had to quote, also, the article from the 1994 Pretorian (p 59) entitled: “Music as a subject at secondary school – A non-elitist approach.” And so on…
It is Sylvia’s zest for life that we will remember. She had a passion for action, more than for words and philosophies. She was an ardent advocate for co-operation even across the most impossible of barriers. (How else were we friends?) Above all, she was brave, right through her life, and who can ask for more?
Who is Sylvia? We still don’t know, but we salute her and thank her.
- Niel van der Watt
Greg Hassenkamp
It is with much sadness that we have been informed of the passing of Sylvia earlier this week. The legacy of the outstanding Music Department she has left the school with can never be underestimated. She mentored Dr van der Watt who would succeed her and took a fledgling music department and grew and developed it into the world class department we have today. Last night’s Café Concert was as much a testimony to Sylvia as it is to any of the current music teachers we have today. The past three evenings performances were dedicated to her.
Please accept the school’s deepest condolences. Mrs Sylvia Reid will always be a part or our school.
Kind regards
Bill Shroder
… Niel van der Watt has kept me informed as to how bravely Sylvia has fought over the years and also told me about her recent visit to see him in Betty’s Bay.
The outstanding Music Department at Boys High will always be a memorial to Sylvia’s drive, passion and leadership. The legacy which she left for Niel to build on and the many lives she touched among the boys and the pleasure that literally thousands have derived from this legacy will never be forgotten. I was in awe of her ability to keep a bunch of talented eccentrics together and to forge a team that, at school level, was unsurpassed.
My thoughts are with you at this sad time and they are tempered with gratitude and affection for a special lady.
Kind regards
Anthony Melck
Sylvia had a very significant impact on students and staff at Pretoria Boys High… She led by example and was always ready to share her achievements and the praise her department won with her colleagues… We were most impressed by her fortitude, courage, humour and gratitude for the years she had been granted since the start of her illness. Her strength and approach to her situation are wonderful examples to us that we will cherish to the end. She was a truly remarkable person, which will make her parting even more difficult to bear.
Reto Reolon
It was 1990, and a handful of form 1’s were about to play their first concert to their parents, and anyone else who had the stomach for it.
Clarinets, violins, trumpets, the kind of instruments one would leave only in the hands of a seasoned professional. Yet here we were, our first, reluctant display of talent and practice. I remember Ms Reid (sorry I never called her Sylvia) walking past me, my b flat trumpet in my hands, face clearly in anguish. She said “They are here to hear you play, go on, give them a show, and remember it’s your night”
I would like to say that helped, but it didn’t. My parents and various other audience barely could contain their giggles as the brass flats began. But what was so memorable was that throughout my time at Boys High, Sylvia was a champion. A champion of music, of celebration and self-expression. And determination. She was convinced, convinced, we would all succeed. Rest peacefully Ms Reid. You were so cool.
Berit Kloster
What more to say than thank you for having shared Sylvia with us! Everyone in my family fell they have lost a dear family member! We will never forget the wonderful time we had together in S A 20 years ago, and for wonderful visits to a Norway. Inger called and informed me, and immediately I sent a message to all mine and Anne Lise! May she rest in peace! And as Christians we live in hope of meeting again!
With much love!
Craig Stewart
Sylvia you had a most amazing life & such special memories created, especially in the last year, may you rest in peace.
Store klemmer fra V-ida-R , Julia og Isabella 🌹
Hvil i fred kjære Douglas Sylvia Reid. Vi lyser fred over ditt minne og din familie. 💝
Stafford & Shirley Smithies
Sylvia was one of the most alive people I’ve known, ever busy, always enthusiastic, very talented & skilled in many directions & encouraging to others. She touched so many lives in a wonderful way so will be long remembered. May she rest in peace.
Jason Reolon
I’m performing tonight and will dedicate my performance to her.
—
Leandri Willis
… every moment spent with her was treasured. Whether it was piecing together puzzles, crafting blankets for charity, or flipping through photo albums showcasing her son's wedding and her daughters adventures in Bali, Sylvia shared her passions and stories with such enthusiasm. Her love for writing and her cherished reading group, along with her pride in her Norwegian heritage, were always evident. Our walks, sometimes joined by her daughter’s beloved dog, allowed us to appreciate nature and Douglas's woodworking talents. ❤️
Ros Stephenson
I hope that the warmth that is felt by all of us for her is making its way to all of you, her beloved family.
Eleanor Lemmer
Dear Sylvia our friendship enjoyed in Pretoria was very special. For years we walked three times a week around the grounds of Boys’ High sometimes holding the lead of boisterous Brussels. We shared so much of our lives together. Then there was our embroidery mornings in Benoni with Elisabeth, our mutual friend who introduced us, and also the years of happy reading at Bookclub! So much! I also attended all the family celebrations and functions. Rich years of memories. I am so grateful you took the time to visit in September last year to share the news of your illness. You were so beautiful and at such peace. Sylvia, you were a very special friend who enriched my life. You will be sorely missed.
Jason Reolon
Sylvia was a pivotal and integral figure in my piano upbringing and musical journey... we had a strong connection at Boys High 1990-93... as a boarder mostly away from home, Mrs Reid was like a second mother to me, I’ll always treasure that.
James Britten
I’ve been fortunate to have known Sylvia since I started lessons with Norman way back when. She was very kind to have taken an interest in my playing.
Harriet Bock
The writing she shared with our group gave us wonderful insight into her life beginning with her days at varsity, as a young married woman, her music and teaching and her adventures.
Ingrid Davidson
Beautiful memories of a wonderful woman, mother and friend. Will always remember her warm smile and kind ways. Never a bad word. Always smiling. She will be fondly missed by all. May she rest in peace
Carol Ansell
Warm, happy memories of a generous, loving, talented lady who executed all endeavours with enthusiasm and perfection. A great sense of humour and willing to help. She will be sorely missed. Has left a hole in my heart! Love and condolences to all her family. ❤️
Charisse
Ah your beautiful mom. So many memories of her holding all those young hooligans through the magic of music at Pretoria Boys High.
Your home in Albert St was always THE place to be - so many great parties.
Your parents both so welcoming.
I loved your mom’s ability to reinvent herself. That really inspired me.
I love her in you 💞
Gudrun Melck
You are doing her proud: such a lovely compilation of photos to ponder and reminisce over! How we loved and admired her and with her, your whole family! 🥰
Charmaine Govender
Your time has come to rest. We at Beanies Booties and Blankets choose to remember you as the formidable woman you were. With the secret smile...tenacity... quiet wisdom... inner strength and not forgetting all the babies worldwide that you touched with us.
Your magic will live on in all of us... little pieces of you reflecting within us and lighting our paths.
Although our hearts ache... you have spent time with us teaching us to celebrate love and touching people that come into our lives.
We will miss your calls... and grieve for you.
Sending everyone loads of love and hugs.
Anette Emdon
Happy memories of B Mus Days at Wits, and many other wonderful memories.
Prisca
Lala kahle aunty Sylvia Amen 🙏
David Cohen
I had the privilege and the pleasure of being taught by Mrs Reid (and Mr Van Der Watt) for 5 years at PBHS. Echo all the sentiments. Many amazing memories of her teaching, accompanying my playing, conducting, and the music evenings.
Sue Mann
My mind goes instantly to the music room at DSG, your mom at the piano, getting us to sing. How she tolerated our disharmony! Only the saintly patience of a teacher can do that!
And then I go to other memories - of new years at your home. Running around all over the garden. Being introduced to fondues for the first time ever at your house. Your dad’s music studio at the back of the property.
Your mom is (yes is, not was) completely synonymous with music at DSG. The one is the other. There’s no music at DSG without Sylvia Reid. There’s just noise.
Lucy Hilmer
Sending love to you all and happy memories of our times together in San Francisco 🤍
Adalbert Ernst
A great tree has fallen.
Sylvia taught me piano at PBHS from 1990-1994. Though I was not her most studious pupil, she cultivated a lifelong love of music in me and played a fundamental role in shaping the person I am today. She remains one of the most remarkable teachers I have ever known.
It was so special spending a precious hour with her last year when she and Sonya were down in Cape Town. Though nearly 30 years had passed she had lost none of her sparkle and humour.
I will never forget her 💙
Jeremy Clark
And it came to me this morning that I should start my book with the last words Sylvia said to me: “ ‘I think you should do what the story requires’, Sylvia said.”
Love Zsadanyi family.
Dearest Lorna Reid Sonya Douglas and Kendall… from all us Zsadanyis we send our sincerest condolences. Sylvia brought us up with her passion for music and ensured we excelled. Always comforting, always encouraging and always proud! As a family I have loved keeping track of your exciting adventures and can say family time was spent to the fullest. May she rest in peace and continue her musical excellence with all angels where she belongs. We send our love and you are all in our thoughts.
Marion Jill Bregman
I’m really devastated by this sad news. Sylvia never complained about her health and always insisted she wanted to live life to the fullest in the time she had left on this earth. I’m so glad she was able to fulfil that mission. Sylvia was very special to all of us in the writing group and we shall miss her dearly. She was very proud of her family and spoke glowingly of their achievements. Through her writing, and her memoirs, which were often wryly humorous and reflective, we came to know something of Douglas and the major events in her life. Sylvia leaves a wonderful legacy and is an inspiration to us….
I remember also how Sylvia made each of us a Christmas goodie box filled with her own home-made biscuits. She carefully wrapped each box in a fancy Xmas serviette. And remember her waffles when we held a meeting at her home? We all trooped into the kitchen while she was busy pouring the batter and ensuring we each had a waffle fresh off the iron. Nothing was too much trouble for Sylvia.
Gunnar Audhild Holm Røsberg
We only saw this now, and we are so sorry for your loss. Sylvia was a fantastic person be get to know and to be around. We will always treasure the talks we had, the stories and laughs we could share, the singing (thanks Douglas!). She will be dearly remembered and missed.
Philippa Berrington Blew
Aw I am so very sad to learn this news… I absolutely adored ‘Mrs Reid’ - a marvelous teacher and even more marvelous human, with a lovely sense of humour and a twinkle in her eye. I am so sorry for your immense loss and I will be holding you all very close in my heart… 💔
Harriet Bock
Very sad news indeed. Sylvia was a very special lady - so generous and talented with a wonderful sense of humour. We are all going to miss her very much. My deepest condolences to all the family. Wishing you comfort at this very sad time 🌷
India Butler
Walking this journey with someone, through all the ups and downs and unpredictability, has been described as one of the hardest things fellow humans can do for each other but also one of life's greatest privileges. Look after yourselves.
Hugh Reid
We will miss Sylvia. She was a determined and strong character to be admired for: the way she faced and overcame the first round of cancer for instance and lived with its consequences, Her beautiful handwork with lacking eye sight, Supporting you these past few years of health problems to mention but a few.
Berenice Christian
I’m so very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I’ve never experienced such acceptance from a patient and such co-operation in trying to do what may be the best.
It has been a pleasure to care for your mother.
I wish your family comfort and God’s mercies in this time.
Helen Joughin
My deepest sympathy to you all. Sylvia was a dear friend to all of us, a deep thinker and an accomplished writer. She was an exceptionally talented person and her warm and friendly nature made her a special member of our writing group. She loved doing her 'bucket list' with you all and valued her family's care and love very much. Love to you all
Sheila Munro
Although I knew Sylvia, the spirit of the woods as her name suggests, I can only claim meeting her and enjoying her pieces at writing club meetings. However, we did share a love of Norwegian knitting designs and I enjoyed her conversations online about them.
Ia and Asbjørn Elias
Dear Douglas, Kendall, Lorna and Sonya. It was with great sadness that we learned of Sylvia 's death. Please accept our deepest condolences. We are happy for all the memories we got to share with you, and that we got to visit you in South Africa and the trip to Kruger Park with you Douglas. We will remember Sylvias smile and laughter, and her joy and excitement when hiking here in Norway. I recently spoke with her on phone, and I appreciate the bonds that are between our families. Our thought and prayers are with you and your families.
Kees and Anne van Dijk
… we cherish many happy memories of Sylvia.
Inger Stoll
Sylvia worked in the Norwegian embassy for many years. She was the PA to several ambassadors. She was kind, warm, witty and energetic. Sylvia was the heart of the Embassy. She was responsible for the interior design, and turned it into a wonderful museum of Norway/South Africa relations. Sylvia shared her profound knowledge of SA with us foreign diplomats and helped us into the South African society. Together with Douglas she guided us into music and culture, and opened their home for various celebrations. The evenings in their kitchen over a good meal with good friends were lovely.
Thank you Sylvia for all the special moments you gave us.
Keke Mokgoro
What a lovely human being Sylvia was. She indeed ran her race and her life can only be celebrated. We all learned something from her. Strength to you Prof, Kendall, Sonya and Lorna.
Rest well Sylvia. ❤️
Anne Carroll
I am so very sorry. I remember her well at St Andrew's. We played a duet together for a staff concert. Please send my deepest sympathy to Douglas and family.
When I was in my very early 20's I babysat her 2 children. They were tiny and behaved so well. RIP and thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Niel van der Watt
I was deeply with you all today and I have written a little something to commemorate Sylvia and my friendship. I hope Kendall has a cello of some sort to play it to you. It is a celebration!
Margarethe Leisegang
So grateful I got to see her during my trip to SA this March. Full of life and happy. ❤️
Candice Kuschke
She adored you all and I loved hearing all the wonderful stories of her colourful life. What an amazing parent. Glad I got to know her even though briefly. Sending you all condolences and strength getting through this time.
Lisa Stead
Oh Lorna, sad reading this but what an absolutely beautiful tribute to your Mom.
I’ve seen some of the very special memories you’ve shared over the years, and even recently. I’m sorry for your loss and hold you and your family close in my heart at this time 💔
Dave & Jenny Baine
One of my outstanding memories of Sylvia and the Sandnes family is that, from this distance for what seems a really long period of time, Pat Dickson and I would turn up at the Sandnes house in Norwood on Sunday afternoons and stay for supper.
Up until then I thought “cheese” was bland English cheddar but on those Sunday evenings my experience of the varieties of cheese expanded enormously and I thoroughly enjoyed most of them. After supper we would gather at the piano, which Mrs Sandnes played… These were amazing evenings and have lived in my memory ever since…
One last memory, once Jen and I dropped in on her at their home in Greenside, Sylvia opened the door and rushed us in - her excitement pouring out as she pointed down and said “Look! Our grand piano has just been delivered!” She then rushed down the stairs and started playing Beethoven’s 5th, it was absolutely beautiful to listen to.
Thank you Sylvia.