A sold-out Celtic-themed concert in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, recently raised $4,000 to help university students maintain their musical instruments. The event, held on March 17, 2026, brought together local residents and the school community at the Speakeasy student centre for an evening of live performance.
The performance featured a local group called Not Dead Yet, which includes eight musicians and guest soprano Dr. Marianne Beduhn. Lead singer Eugene Turgeon and his bandmates are known for their history of supporting local causes, with several members being retired doctors from the community.
Money from the show will go directly to the Algoma University music program to pay for the repair and upkeep of instruments used by students. This support comes at an important time for the department, as the university is preparing to welcome new music students again starting in May and September 2026.
The university had previously paused new admissions to the music program in 2025 due to money concerns, but decided to bring it back after receiving strong feedback from the public. Recent data showed that the number of students in the program had doubled over the last two years.
Dr. Edward Turgeon, the head of the music department, organized the show to celebrate the program and its connection to the city. The concert took place on St. Patrick’s Day and was one of the first major fundraising events held since the school confirmed that new students could sign up for the program again.
