Peter and Audrey Switzer Trophy Room

Donated By: David N. Root and family, Stratford
First Presented: 1967
Criteria: Highest aggregate mark in 3 senior piano and/or voice classes from Stratford High School area.

Miriam Haines Root, B.A., A.R.C.M., L.R.A.M., L.T.C.M., offered lessons in Piano, Voice Culture and Singing in her studio at 175 John Street North. She had also served on the Faculty of the Toronto Conservatory of Music. She had a long association with the Stratford Music Teachers' Association, which she served as president in 1959 and 1960. From 1962 through 1987, she served on the Music Selection Committee of the Kiwanis Music Festival selecting music for the piano classes. Miriam Root died in 1997.

David and Miriam Root had children, Miriam, Kathryn, John and Helen who participated in the Kiwanis Music Festival during the 1950's and 1960's and often won top honours in piano and voice. The family presented this trophy for proficiency in piano and voice as a tribute to Miriam's love for music and contribution to the Festival over much of her lifetime.