Melbourne Recital Centre is saddened to share the news that Anne Kantor AO, one of the Centre’s Founding Benefactors and most committed supporters, has passed away aged 86.

A passionate music-lover and visionary philanthropist, Anne, along with her husband Milan Kantor OAM and their family, played an instrumental role in establishing the Melbourne Recital Centre Endowment Fund in 2007. This vital support continues to bring to life the Centre’s broad range of artistic and learning programs, reaching thousands of music lovers of all ages in our community each year.

In celebration of Anne’s passion for supporting young people, on Sunday 18th September we were pleased to welcome Julie Kantor to the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall stage to present the Anne Kantor Encouragement Award to a young finalist in the 2022 Great Romantics Competition. This award was presented alongside awards named in honour of Milan Kantor OAM and Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC, and was created in Anne’s honour to support the next generation of emerging artists who will bring the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall to life with live music well into the future.

Anne’s warm smile and welcoming conversation were regular features at our concerts and events since the Centre’s earliest days, and will be deeply missed by us all.

Anne passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and her favourite music.

Melbourne Recital Centre’s Board and Staff send our deepest condolences to all of Anne’s family.