Remembering Philip Ponting

Few people leave a mark on a community quite like Philip Ponting did. A founder of the Winspear Centre and Chair of the Edmonton Concert Hall Foundation during its inaugural year, Phil helped turn the dream of a world-class concert hall into a reality. His passing at the age of 80 is a profound loss for our organization, our city, and the many people whose lives were touched by his vision and leadership. 

Phil’s belief in the importance of the arts helped shape not only this hall, but the cultural life of Edmonton and Alberta as a whole. 

An accomplished lawyer and retired partner at McLennan Ross LLP, Phil brought a sharp intellect, a strong sense of purpose, and a deep commitment to public service to every role he held. He cared deeply about the arts and about the institutions that support them. He believed strongly in the importance of cultural life in Alberta and gave generously of his time and energy to help it thrive. 

Phil served on the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Symphony Society from 1986 to 1996 and played a central role in shaping the vision, fundraising, and development of what would become the Francis Winspear Centre for Music. His leadership as Chair of the Edmonton Concert Hall Foundation helped lay the groundwork for the extraordinary facility we know today. 

Those who worked alongside Phil remember not only his intelligence and conviction, but also his thoughtfulness. He did not shy away from speaking his mind, yet he was generous with his knowledge and deeply attentive to the importance of words. His influence can still be found in the foundational legal documents that helped establish our hall. 

Phil’s commitment to the arts extended far beyond the Winspear Centre. He served on the boards of the Banff Centre and the Canada Council for the Arts, was involved with the Alberta Performing Arts Stabilization Fund, and remained a passionate advocate for arts and community initiatives throughout his life. His many contributions were recognized through honours including induction into the Edmonton Cultural Hall of Fame and being named a Fellow of the Banff Centre. 

Today, we remember Phil not only for what he accomplished, but for the care, generosity, and conviction he brought to his work. His legacy lives on in every performance, every audience, and every artist who walks through our doors. 

We are grateful to have known him, and we extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. 

Phil Ponting helped build something extraordinary. His legacy will continue to live on here for generations to come.