Today, while playing guitar I did something I don't normally do or at least haven't done in such a long time. Practice my scales... I was immediately reminded of Helmut. I grew up and started playing guitar when I was fairly young and was taught by Helmut well into my early teens almost 20 years ago now. Helmut used to tell me all the time with a smile... "Practice your scales" or "Did you practice your scales?" I of course many times, did not... haha.

When you're a young kid, practicing scales wasn't exactly "fun". I just wanted to be a rockstar! I remember at times during some of my earlier lessons listening to his teachings and thinking to myself. "Ok, but what does this have to do with me becoming a rock star?" In one's mind at that age, you are more pre-occupied with these dreams and desires and fail to see that earning a skill such as the guitar takes great patience and dedication. It doesn't come over night...

Helmut being the wise man that he was used to tell me, there are no short cuts and that practice, and the study of music theory is essential to becoming a great musician.

I spent a great deal of time reflecting on the many memories I have of Helmut and his wise teachings today; which brought me great nostalgia... I started thinking about how influential music has been for me and the impact it's had on my life. Music has given me some of my greatest memories, brought me joy, happiness and some of the best days of my life. Its also helped carry me thru and has always been there for me during some of my most difficult times.

It has been a long time since I have seen Helmut. Looking back on all this today, I wanted to try and reach out so I could tell him how grateful I am for the impact he has had on my life thru music. I regretfully will never be able to tell him this, as I am just now learning of his passing.

Its funny sometimes, looking back on your younger years... What brought me into music was always the dream of becoming a rock star! I didn't know it then, but every time he used to tell me too "Practice my scales" Thats what he was trying to help me do...

Thank you Helmut, for all you're wise teachings and for the gift of music you have given me.

- Ryan Baril & Family

"Practice youre scales"

I studied guitar with Helmut for most of my life, he was a truly articulate musician. I saw Helmut almost every week since I was eight years old. He passed in November before I turned 18. He was a very patient teacher and I will forever treasure the memories from our weekly sessions. His perseverance around Christmas time was always commendable while every student of his would get their iteration of "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" and all the others he must have been sick of. He taught me how to appreciate jazz and that the best guitar players make hard music look easy - not the other way around.
Helmut taught music for most of his life, starting as a student at Pukara's school of music. He later studied physics and chemistry at Laurentian University. He would tell me how he was always fascinated by the cosmos and wishes he delved deeper into astrophysics and astronomy. He was a very intelligent man. He was a Montreal Canadians fan and always cheered for Germany in soccer. Some lessons were mostly enthusiastic discussions about music, science and stories. Regardless, I treasured the time I spent with him and absorbed all I could. I think of Helmut every time I play guitar, and I will play until I'm dead. I will forever remember his knowledge and passion.

Sudbury has lost a great music educator and musician.

I had the pleasure of taking music with Helmut these past four years. Will miss his conversation, tips, and views dearly. Helmut always had a ready smile and was welcoming. My entire family got to meet him through music lessons at Jett Landry and we are so so sorry to hear about his passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Brad Simser and family.

Condolences to Family and friends of Helmut. He truly got on the "Stairway To Heaven" far too early-very sad. I have many fond memories, and some lack of, the good times fishing, hunting, and playing guitar with Helmut at camp at Manitoulin, or just hanging with the Boys. Had a lot of fun touring the back roads of Walden listening to tunes trying to stay out of trouble too! Missing Helmut.