Above: The Northborough Southborough Music Association posted this photo to their Facebook page today. The bench and plaque behind the group are dedicated to the memory of Dennis Wrenn.
Five years ago, the Algonquin community suffered the sudden loss of their longtime music teacher. Dennis Wrenn died on a student trip to Greece, February 20, 2009.
There was an outpouring of grief and fond remembrances for a teacher that touched so many lives over his career.
I wasn’t a student of Mr. Wrenn’s, but Susan was. In February 2009, she wrote:
I was a music geek in high school and spent countless hours hanging out in the safe haven of Mr. Wrenn’s band room. To say he was the heart and soul of the Algonquin music program would be an understatement. So many of us were touched by his enthusiasm and spirit.
For a look back at media coverage and tributes to Dennis Wrenn, click here.
Dennis was such a big influence on my daughter Tania’s life in high school and beyond. He was her mentor in high school for the theater and her musical skills encouraging her even when she would be down on herself. He brought the musical Aida to Algonquin Tania’s senior year of high school. He knew this was her favorite show at the time. He cast Tania as Aida which showcased Tania’s talents. At his memorial service at Mechanics Hall Tania wore her Aida costume and sang her heart out from that show. I worked with Dennis when Tania started Algonquin making costumes for all his shows. He always had a smile when I saw him and appreciated all I did. Today, Tania & her husband own a children’s theater in town and Dennis is always in the back of her mind. Thanks Dennis for always keeping Tania focused and continuing to influence her theater and musical skills. You are missed!