Peter Bruce MacKinnon

July 6, 1943 – February 10, 2026

(teacher, musician, educator)

We are sad to announce the passing of Peter MacKinnon. Peter passed away peacefully at Hospice Peterborough on February 10 from complications due to cancer. He devoted his life to nurturing musicians of all ages and enriching the local musical community.

Peter was widely respected for his deep musical knowledge. He held an ARCT diploma from the Royal Conservatory of Music and earned advanced degrees from institutions in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. His academic and professional achievements reflected a lifelong pursuit of excellence in music performance.

As a teacher, Peter maintained a private piano studio in Peterborough, where he guided students from beginner to advanced levels, emphasizing musicality, technique, and a strong foundation in theory. He taught piano, organ, harpsichord, and music theory, and his students benefited not only from his technical expertise but also from his patience, encouragement, and high standards.

Peter’s contributions extended well beyond his studio. He served as a senior examiner for the Royal Conservatory of Music, adjudicated festivals, and presented workshops and lectures throughout Canada and the United States. He was also active as a performer, accompanist, and continuo player, and held leadership roles including Director of the Trent University Madrigal Singers and involvement with local choral and musical organizations.

Outside of music, Peter had a lifelong love of sailing. He and his beloved wife, Jacquie, spent countless hours on the water aboard Bittern, their sailboat in Kingston, exploring the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. He cherished the tranquility of the lake, the challenge of the wind, and the freedom that sailing brought. Sailing was not only a hobby but a way for Peter to connect with nature, share special moments with Jacquie, and reflect on life’s joys.

Throughout his career, Peter was known for his generosity of spirit, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering dedication to the musical community. His influence lives on through the many students he taught, the colleagues he inspired, and the cultural life of Peterborough, which was enriched by his presence.

Peter will be remembered with gratitude as an exceptional teacher, accomplished musician, and passionate advocate for music education. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jacquie MacKinnon, his step-daughter, Mya Marsh Bradford (Scott), his step-son, Jean-Paul Marsh, and his granddaughter, Amy (Sam) and was predeceased by his parents, Bruce and Patricia MacKinnon, and his brother, John.

Visitation will be held at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Marlbank from 10:00 am, with a Eucharist at 11 am on March 6. Details concerning the Celebration of Life will be available at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations to Hospice Peterborough.